Howard M. Winter (71) of Salem

Howard M. Winter, 71, of Salem, Illinois passed away at 10:15 am Wednesday, September 6, 2023 at the Salem Township Hospital in Salem.

He was born on May 7, 1952, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the son of Homer M. and Virginia (Yost) Winter. He married Lorre L. Carruthers on October 5, 1992 in Salem, and they shared 30 years of marriage. Howard had a fulfilling career as a truck mechanic for Heartland Peterbilt in Effingham for many years. Howard was known for his warm personality and his ability to always have a good story to tell or a joke to share. He had a knack for bringing joy and laughter to those around him. Howard's positive spirit and friendly nature made him a cherished friend to many. In addition to his successful career, Howard had various hobbies and interests that brought him joy throughout his life. He was an avid gun collector and enjoyed spending time in nature hunting and fishing. Despite his affinity for outdoor activities, Howard also had a soft spot for pets and their companionship. Howard had been attending the Louisville First Baptist Church in Louisville, Illinois.

Howard is survived by his wife: Lorre L. Winter of Salem; children: Steve (Sandy) Giesler of Shumway, Illinois, Amanda Marie (Mark) Dukes of Lebanon, Illinois, Samanthia Lemarr of Salem; 11 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren. He is also survived by a brother-in-law: Bill Garlock of Atoka, Tennessee.

Howard was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Joy Garlock.

Funeral services to celebrate Howard's life will be held at 5:00 pm, Tuesday, September 12, 2023 at the Louisville First Baptist Church with Pastor Kelly Carruthers officiating. Visitation will be held on Tuesday afternoon at the church where friends may call from 2:00 to 5:00 pm. Following the services cremation rites will take place. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Howard's memory to either Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital or the Salem Animal Shelter. The McGriff Funeral Home in Louisville is entrusted with the care and arrangements. To sign the guestbook online or share a memory of Howard, please visit by clicking here.