Rick Wininger

Rick Wininger, a 65-year-old beacon of unwavering love and generosity, completed his earthly journey on November 14, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of kindness that will continue to inspire those who knew him. Born on April 19, 1959, in Columbus, Indiana, Rick's life was a testament to the power of positivity and the impact one individual can make through a life well-lived. Rick's story is one of enduring love and devotion. His beloved wife, Connie S. Swinney Wininger, stood by his side in a partnership that exemplified mutual support and affection. His legacy lives on through his sons, Ricky A. Wininger of Greensburg, Indiana, and Travis Scott (Lexie) Wininger of Columbus, Indiana, and his cherished grandchildren, Lindley, Kennedy, and Karson Wininger, nephews Jody Littrell, Shawn Wininger, Kevin Wininger, Chad Wininger. While his parents, Robert L. and Elizabeth A. Hall Wininger, and brothers, Robert E. "Bob" Wininger and Michael Wininger, preceded him in death, the family bonds they shared remain unbroken in spirit. Rick's professional life was marked by a commitment to community service, illustrated by his many years with Columbus Parks and Rec. His dedication to enhancing the lives of others continued at Aisin Manufacturing USA, where he worked for a decade. Rick's colleagues will remember him for the warmth and camaraderie he brought to the workplace. A true sports aficionado, Rick's passion for softball, Purdue athletics, and the Indianapolis Colts was more than a pastime—it was a way of connecting with others and sharing joy. Yet, above all, Rick's heart belonged to his church, East Columbus Christian Church, where his faith and fellowship were the bedrock of his existence. A funeral service celebrating Rick’s life will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, November 23, 2024, at the Jewell – Rittman Family Funeral Home with Rev. Ron Bridgewater officiating. Friends and family may visit from 4:00 until 8:00 p.m. on Friday, November 22, 2024, and one hour prior to the service on Saturday. Rick will be laid to rest in Garland Brook Cemetery. Friends wishing to make a memorial contribution in Rick’s memory may do so to the Dementia Society of America or to East Columbus Christian Church through the funeral home. The words loving, kind, and generous only begin to capture the essence of Rick's character. His actions spoke volumes of his desire to uplift and support everyone around him. As Helen Keller once said, "The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched—they must be felt with the heart." Rick lived by this principle, touching hearts and radiating a beauty that transcended the visible. Rick's life was a reminder that we all have the capacity to leave a positive imprint on the world. He showed us that through love, kindness, and generosity, we can create ripples of change that extend far beyond our own lives. His memory will serve as a guiding light, encouraging us all to live with purpose and passion. As we reflect on Rick's life, let us honor his memory by emulating the qualities he embodied. Let us engage with our communities with the same fervor, support our loved ones with the same steadfastness, and approach each day with the same zest for life. Rick Wininger may have left this world, but his spirit endures, urging us to live fully, love deeply, and make every moment count. In the end, Rick's life story is not one of sorrow but of celebration—a celebration of a life that inspired, a heart that cared, and a spirit that will continue to motivate us all to be better, do better, and love better. Rest in peace, Rick, husband, father, grandfather. Your journey was a masterpiece of the heart, and your legacy a blueprint for a life well-lived.