Michael James Winckler

Michael James Winckler, 37 of Independence, MO passed away Tuesday, February 15, 2022 at the University of Kansas Medical Center. Cremation is planned with a memorial service to be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, February 26, 2022 at the Speaks Suburban Chapel, 18020 E. 39th St., Independence, MO 64055. Donations may be made in his name to the Independence Animal Shelter, 21001 MO-78, Independence, MO 64057 or to HappyBottoms, 303 W 79th St, Kansas City, MO 64114. Michael was born February 16, 1984 in Salina, KS to Mark and Tamara (Smith) Winckler. He graduated from Mankato, High School in Mankato, KS and later received a bachelor’s in engineering from Kansas State University. He had worked for the City of Independence since 2013, as the City Engineer since 2020. Michael was a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers, Mid American Regional Council, American Public Works Association, and Toastmasters International, Tru Talkers section. When he wasn’t working, he enjoyed homebrewing with his best college buddies, always telling them what needed to be done, while wearing his favorite pair of overalls. They also enjoyed attending concerts together, many times traveling to St. Louis, Omaha, or Des Moines for a weekend road trip. KISS, Def Leppard, Motley Crue, ZZ Top, and Hall and Oats were some of his favorites. Family was the most important thing to Michael, one activity he enjoyed most was cheering on Miles and his friends while on the soccer field. Never missing a game, he would keep notes to help remember the names of all the kiddos and keep score for the rest of us on the sidelines. It was important to him to learn everyone’s name so he could cheer them all on. He was the most supportive and loving dad to Miles and husband to Shannon. Michael was loyal to his friends and coworkers, with a heart of a teacher, and would do anything for anyone. He was always generous with his time and resources, giving and helping whenever needed. Michael was married to Shannon Hillis on October 8, 2011, she survives him of the home; He is also survived by; a son, Miles Winckler of the home; 2 sisters, Kaydee Sheets Jonesboro, AR and Jessica Winters and husband Alex of Ellsworth, KS; his parents, Tamara and Jeff DeBey of Garnett, KS and Mark and Liz Winckler of Lincoln, KS; his grandparents, Phyllis Winckler of Wilson, KS and Kay and Thayer Smith of Ellsworth, KS and a niece Addie Winters. He is proceeded in death by his grandpa Paul Winckler and
niece Clio Sheets.