Douglas Allen Winrich

7/25/1943 - 5/17/2025

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Obituary For Douglas Allen Winrich

Douglas A. Winrich (Butch), 81, passed away Saturday May 17, 2025, at Lake Hallie Memory Care.

Doug was born at Sacred Heart Hospital in Eau Claire, WI on July 25, 1943, to Ina (Tibbitts) and Robert Winrich. He was baptized at home on Dec 27, 1944. Doug graduated from Memorial High School in 1961 and was a member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church.

Doug started his career as a Draftsman at Northwestern Motor Company, where he worked for over 20 years. He then became a General Manager at United Tractor for 15 years. He finished his career working for Trowin Industries before his health began to decline.

Doug married Barb Mueller on Feb 18, 1967, at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church. Together they had 3 children: Tammy, Tiffany and Troy. Doug designed and built the home their family resided in for 42 years. The “Wellington Dr” house was known for the swimming pool parties and a manicured lawn that no one was allowed to walk on. Doug inspired Clark Griswold with the decorated house and trees with Christmas lights. The display became an icon in the city, making the Parade of Lights, prompting lines of cars and buses to drive by every night during the holiday season.

Doug had a love for cars and was a “Dodge” guy. He enjoyed tinkering with them and was proud of his Sunbeam Imp and Alpine. Doug was a jack of all trades and could fix just about anything, but just a little bigger and better. He was a Green Bay Packers fan and enjoyed hunting, fishing and watching NASCAR. His favorite restaurant was The River Inn where he always ordered chicken wings or fish fry.

Doug is survived by his 3 children: Tammy (Dave) Kirby of Fall Creek, Tiffany (Rob) Beastrom of Littleton, CO, Troy (Lisa) Winrich of Eau Claire. Grandchildren: Nick (Samantha) Kirby of Altamonte Springs, Florida, Weston (Mar’que) Kirby of Columbus WI, Vanessa (Greg Weber) Kirby of Altoona, Chloe (Shane) Jiskra of Eau Claire, Sydney Kirby of Eau Claire, Brique Beastrom of Eau Claire, Parker Beastrom of Aberdeen, SD and Cooper and Freeman Winrich of Eau Claire. He is also survived by 7 Great-Grandchildren, nieces, a nephew, his Grand-dog Kuda and other family and friends

Doug is preceded in death by his wife, Barb, parents Ina (Even) Landsem and Robert, sister Sue Winrich, and a niece.

A Memorial Service is planned for Friday June 13th from 3-5 pm at Smith Funeral Home Eau Claire. There will be a prayer service at 5:00 with internment at St Johns immediately following. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Chippewa Humane Association. Smith Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Services

13 Jun

Interment

St. John's Lutheran Cemetery Omaha St. Eau Claire, WI 54701 Get Directions »
13 Jun

Visitation

03:00 PM - 05:00 PM

Smith Funeral Chapel 2222 London Rd Eau Claire, WI 54701 Get Directions »
13 Jun

Funeral Service

05:00 PM

Smith Funeral Chapel 2222 London Rd Eau Claire, WI 54701 Get Directions »
by Obituary Assistant

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Condolences

  • 06/07/2025

    Kaci Campbell

    I was so grateful to have Doug as a customer at FedEx. I always loved our conversations and his cute laugh. I am truly saddened by his passing and will miss him greatly. My deepest condolences to his entire family. Kaci Campbell

  • 06/06/2025

    Dave and Kay Hayden

    Tammy and family So sorry to hear about your dad. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you. May God wrap his arms around you and give you peace and comfort during this difficult time. Dave and Kay Hayden

  • 06/04/2025

    Bill Branzell

    Having lived "around the corner" from the Winrich family many years ago, I can say Doug and family were great people. I think at one time or another all the Winrich kids babysat for our son. Rest in peace Doug. And my condolences to Tiffany, Tammy and Troy.

  • 05/25/2025

    Barb Julson

    My sincere condolences to you and your family, Troy and Lisa. Barb Julson

  • 05/20/2025

    Carla

    Tiffany and Rob Thinking of you during this time and sending you blessings Carla and Sacha

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