Jerome S. "Jerry" Wineski

Jerome S. “Jerry” Wineski, age 87, of Winona, passed away on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at the Green Prairie Rehabilitation Center in Plainview, MN.

He was born on December 2, 1938, in Winona, to Frank and Romelle (Scharmach) Wineski, and was a graduate of Cotter High School. Following high school, Jerry enlisted with the United States Navy, serving honorably from 1956-1959, and he was proud to have played football for his unit while stationed in Hawaii.

Jerry was united in marriage with Mary E. Jenko on April 14, 1967, in Winona, and she preceded him in death on April 24, 2017.

He was employed with Peerless Chain Company in Winona for 40 years and was active with his union serving as the District Lodge 66 President, Local 1030 President and Treasurer, and as the Private Industry Council President. Jerry also served on five negotiating committees, was named Labor Man of the Year, and served on the Minnesota State Council of Machinists for 15 years.

Jerry was a long-time dedicated member of the Elks, where he was a Past Exalted Ruler, was honored as Elk of the Year several times, and he also cooked at the Winona club for over 20 years.

In his younger days, Jerry was active playing softball and he umpired for little league baseball. In retirement, he drove school bus and enjoyed volunteering in his community. He was a life-long member of the Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka.

Jerry is lovingly survived by his children: AJ (Jodie) Wineski, John (Tracy Heaser) Wineski, and Terri (Dave) Dailey; grandchildren: Tayler Jo Wineski, Drew (Chelsea) Wineski, Ally Kosidowski, and Danielle Kosidowski; great-grandchildren: Magnolia, Clover, Izzy, and Charlotte; brother: Jim (Maisie) Wineski; brothers-in-law: Art Speltz and Jerome (Sarah) Jenko; as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary; parents; and sisters: Jeanette Speltz and Doris Wineski.

Visitation will be held at the Watkowski-Mulyck Funeral Home on Monday, January 19, 2026, from 4 PM until 7 PM, where an Elks Service will be held at 6:30 PM. Visitation will also be held at the Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, from 10 AM until the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 AM. Father Michael Churchill will officiate.

Jerry will be laid to rest privately at St. Mary’s Cemetery, with military honors.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully asks that memorials be directed to the Elks National Foundation, or to Sobieski Park in Winona.

Jerry’s family would like to extend their deepest appreciation to his good friend, Mike Curran, Mayo Hospice, Green Prairie Rehabilitation Center, and to his nurse practitioner, Janell Grazzini-Frantz, for their friendship, and the excellent and loving care that he received.

Online condolences or memories may be left for Jerry’s family at www.watkowski-mulyck.com.