Ernest Lee Winterkorn
October 3, 1935 – April 10, 2020
Mr. Ernest Lee Winterkorn (“Ernie” or “Sonny”) died peacefully in his home in Phoenix, AZ on April 10, 2020 with his life partner Jean Benson by his side. He was 84 years of age.
Mr. Winterkorn is survived by his partner Jean Benson of Phoenix, AZ, his first wife Joan Winterkorn of Spencer, MA, his daughter Cynthia Bissell and her husband Richard of Barre, MA, his daughter Sue Collura and her husband John of Fitchburg, MA, and his six grandchildren Nicholas, Brian, Eric, Aaron, Anthony and Natasha.
Ernest was born on October 3, 1935, in Arlington, MA, to Bela and Helen Winterkorn. He was raised in Waltham, MA, and graduated from Waltham Vocational High School in 1954. He was a carpenter by trade, but was very handy with tools and could fix most anything. He worked as a technician for many years at Itek Corporation, working on optical components for satellites. He lived in Waltham most of his life. In 2000, after retirement, he moved with Jean to Arizona. In Phoenix, he was known locally as “The Boston Cowboy”.
Ernest had several side jobs over the years, including playing guitar in a band and handyman work at several apartment complexes and businesses. He enjoyed country music, playing guitar, and riding motorcycles. In his retirement years, he volunteered at the local senior center and enjoyed getting together with other musicians for jam sessions.
Ernest will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved him. Due to the current social restrictions, there will be no memorial held.
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