John Clifford Wingard

John was born on November 4, 1931 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He graduated from Bethel Park High in 1950. He married Barbara L Klinger, his high school sweetheart in 1952. The family moved to Florida in 1958. Over the years the couple welcomed 4 children, John and Barbara set about teaching them all they knew about love and life. John’s children will remember him as a kind, gentle and patient father who did his best to encourage them to pursue their aspirations.

John had many occupations in the early years such as coal mining, hauling steel, hospital dietician, restaurant owner, lounge manager, A/C installation and fuel oil deliveryman. John was accomplished at raising and racing harness horses and had pleasure horses for his children to ride. In 1971 he joined the United States Postal Service and retired in 2000 after 29 years. He was a generous individual who loved learning and who was passionate about taking on new projects. He was an active and devoted member of the Church of Christ and volunteered at the 53rd Avenue Food Pantry.

John Is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara, of 65 years and has left a legacy of loving and dedicated family members:

4 Children – Sherri L Morin (Mike), Debi J Lanier (Lance), Wayne K Wingard (Carol), and Tami J Wingard

9 Grandchildren – Marcus N Morin (Amy), Jenifer L Thompson (Grant), Matthew R Woodward (Michelle), Cynthia A Woodward, Melissa A Spencer (Danny), John-Michael Morin (Amanda), Sheryl M Wingard, Wesley D Morin (Taylor), and Jakeb A Thacker (Cortney)

17 Great Grandchildren – Jade C Anderson (Josh), Sean R Garcia, Cameron M Woodward, Haven A Crisp, Emma L Thompson, Elexa A Crisp, Delani J Crisp, Gracie M Morin, Lili G Thompson, Justin P Woodward, Lee J Woodward, Emily L Morin, Hannah R Morin, Elijah C Lentsch, Wyatt D Spencer, Ella A Spencer

1 Great Great Granddaughter – Kylie A Anderson

John is also survived by his sister and brother-in-law Lois and Frank Nave and their children Tom (Joni), Jim (Marilyn), Suzanne (Rich) and John (Nikki) and their children.

He is preceded in death by his great grandson Hunter D Morin as well as his father John Clifford Wingard, Sr. and his mother Anna Marie Wingard.

A CELEBRATION OF LIFE is scheduled for January 27 at 1:00pm at 53rd Avenue Church of Christ with a reception to follow in the social hall. All are welcome to attend and celebrate John’s life. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to The Food Pantry at 53rd Avenue Church of Christ (3412 53rd Ave E, Bradenton FL 34203).

The family would like to thank the health care professionals from Kindred at Home, Tidewell Hospice of Ellenton, Right At Home for their compassionate care and dedication, and the 53rd Avenue Church of Christ for their continued love and support of John and Barbara and their family.

Arrangements under the direction of NEPTUNE SOCIETY - Fort Myers, Ft. Myers, FL.