James Winger

James Dwight Winger was born January 16, 1927, in Appleton, MN, the only child of Ole and Alma (Ogren) Winger. He grew up in Appleton where he attended school and excelled in sports. Following James’ graduation from high school in 1945 he enlisted in the United States Army. James served as a cook and was stationed in Germany where he fed the Red Cross volunteers.

James was united in marriage to Doris Loija on June 10, 1951, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Sebeka. The couple made their home in Alexandria, MN. The couple was blessed with four children.

James worked as a salesman his entire career starting at Iverson’s Shoe store in Alexandria before becoming a salesman for Pearl Jobbing. After many years with Pearl Jobbing he began his own business, Toy and Card Supply, which he operated until 1981. He continued to be a route salesman for various companies into the late 1980s before retiring.

James was an artist at heart. He enjoyed working with his hands including woodburning, furniture refinishing, woodworking, and making toys. He loved to square dance and sing along to old country western music.  James was also very proud of his Norwegian heritage.

People were important to James; part of his success as a salesman came from the joy he received as he listened to and visited with people. However, his family was his pride and joy. He worked hard to provide for them and always made sure the kids ate first at every gathering. He introduced his sons to fishing and his daughters to music.  While supportive of all his children and their activities, he did forego listening to piano recitals.

On Tuesday, June 18, 2019, James died at the age of ninety-two years. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Doris. James is survived by his sons, Ross Winger (Karen) of Carlos, MN, and Randy Winger (Maureen) of Alexandria, MN; his daughters, Julie Thomas (Scott)  of Benson, MN, and Dana Moyer (Douglas) of Kansas City, MO; grandchildren, Emily Thomas, Joseph Thomas, Justin Moyer (Kim), Nicole Harvey (Todd), Gage Winger, and Madalyn Winger; and great-grandchildren, Levi Harvey, Gwendolyn Harvey, Chloe Moyer, Greyson Moyer, and Emma Moyer.

A celebration of life service will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, June 26, 2019, at First Lutheran Church in Alexandria with Reverend Greg Billberg officiating.  Visitation will be held from 4-6 PM Tuesday at Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria and for one hour prior to the service at the church. Private interment will be at Kinkead Cemetery in Alexandria. Military honors will be accorded by the Alexandria Veterans honor Guard.

Arrangements are with the Anderson Funeral Home. www.andersonfuneral.net