Kitchel Earl Winters

Kitchel E. Winters, 96, of Union County, died Monday afternoon, October 1, 2012, in Liberty. A Union County native, Kitchel was born February 9, 1916 to Forrest D. and Hattie Belle Lafuze Winters. He was a 1934 graduate of Brownsville High School, attended Purdue University and was a graduate of the Richmond Business College. Since 1926, he was an active member of Edwards Memorial United Methodist Church until his declining health restricted his activities. Kitchel represented the fourth generation of his family in farming and operated the last dairy farm in Union County. He started milking cows as a young boy when he was just big enough to sit on a milk stool. He was a lifetime member of the Farm Bureau. Kitchel enjoyed fishing and the time he spent on the river gigging and snaring. He also liked to hunt groundhogs and squirrels. He most enjoyed holiday family gatherings, vacationing when his sons were young and playing the role of practical joker. He was a wonderful son, husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. Kitchel is survived by his wife of 67 years, the former Carolyn L. Bell, whom he married October 27, 1945 at the Methodist Church in Liberty; two sons: Brian Winters and Kevin Winters, both of Liberty; two grandchildren: Krista Winters and Michael Winters, both of Liberty; and a great-grandson: Kaden Kelly. In addition to his parents, Kitchel was preceded in death by an infant twin brother. Private services will be conducted by Reverend Scott Bell of the Edwards Memorial United Methodist Church, at the convenience of the family. Interment will be in the College Corner Cemetery. Showalter Blackwell Long Funeral Home, Fosdick Chapel, Liberty, is in charge of the arrangements. Memorial contributions may be sent to the Edwards Memorial United Methodist Church or to the donor's choice. For additional information and to send condolences or memories, go to www.ShowalterBlackwellLong.com