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Christopher S. Winkler, age 49, passed away on May 25 at home after a brief illness.

Chris was a graduate of Saint Johnsbury Academy, and attended Wentworth Institute. He then joined the U.S. Marine Corps and studied aircraft flight mechanics. Chris was a combat veteran of Iraq and Somalia military actions. He was a proud marine and served with distinction, receiving a special commendation from the Blue Angels Aerobatic Flight Team.

Chris is survived by his parents Matthew and Judith Winkler of Essex, and his brother Matthew and his family Megan, Nora, and Maeve, all of Madison. Additionally, Chris leaves his beloved close friends Alexandra Hatch, Katie, and Molly, all of East Haddam.

Chris was a great mechanic and truly enjoyed working with his hands, both in metal and wood. He enjoyed life and he lived it his way to the fullest. Chris will be missed by all whom his short life touched.

The service will be private at Robinson, Wright & Weymer Funeral Home in Centerbrook. He will be buried with full military honors at the State Veterans Cemetery in Middletown on Friday, June 23 at 10:30 a.m. To share a condolence with Chris’s family, please visit www.rwwfh.com.