Obituary EAST PEORIA - Harold W. Winkler, 81, of East Peoria, IL, went to be with his Lord Thursday, February 17, 2011. Harold was born on June 18, 1929 in Peoria, IL to Walter and Mildred Wiesehan Winkler. He grew up on the family farm where he developed a love for animals and the outdoors that served to enrich his whole life. He graduated from East Peoria High School in 1947 and remained connected to his alumni group over the years. His studies at the University of Illinois and Bradley University led to a career in engineering at Caterpillar Tractor Company. There he developed life-long friendships with a long list of characters. He was married to his high school sweetheart, Caroline Wiegand, who was the love of his life for 60 years. She survives. Harold is also survived by daughters, Cynthia Winkler of Salem, IN and Susan (Douglas) Plank of Tulsa, OK and son, John (Barbara) Winkler of East Peoria, IL, grandchildren, Adam Plank and Abigail Plank, brother, Richard (Jean) Winkler of East Peoria, IL, many nieces, nephews, and his beloved sister-in-law. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Thomas Lee Winkler. Harold had a passion for his study of the Civil War and his dogs and cat. He was an avid St. Louis Cardinals and Bradley Braves fan. He lived life to the fullest measure and attempted to pass it on to all who knew him. He was a life-long member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Peoria where he served as historian. Services for Harold will be at 11:00 am Tuesday, February 22, 2011 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Peoria. Pastor Jim Bettermann will officiate. Visitation will be from 9-11 am Tuesday at the church. Burial will be at Fondulac Cemetery in East Peoria. Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory in East Peoria is assisting the family with arrangements. Visitation FEB 22. 09:00 AM - 11:00 AM Trinity Lutheran Church 135 NE Randolph Ave Peoria, IL, US Service FEB 22. 11:00 AM Trinity Lutheran Church 135 NE Randolph Ave Peoria, IL, US