Gordon L. Winters, 70, of Ripon, died on March 10, 2011 at Doctors Hospital of Manteca, California. Mr. Winters was born on October 29, 1940 in Modesto, California. He lived in Ripon for 70 years.

He was a union carpenter for 40 years, employed solely by D. Cummins Corporation. He was also a walnut farmer. Gordon graduated from Ripon Christian Grammar and High Schools. He continued his education at Modesto Junior College for two more years. Gordon was most characterized by his love for the outdoors. He was a skilled archer and member of Yahi Bowmen Archery Club of Modesto, CA. He was a state champion for multiple years. He was also a lover of motorsports. He began by racing super modified race cars at the Stockton Motor Speedway. He then transitioned to racing go karts and motorcycles. His passion for racing included his entire family. He was admired for his abilities. Gordon’s greatest love was spending time camping and hunting in the outdoors. The Winters family spent nearly every summer weekend in the mountains camping. His dream was to complete his cabin in Bear Valley, California. He was able to achieve his dream this past summer, just before the first snow. After retirement, Gordon revisited his motorcycle interest and purchased a Harley Davidson motorcycle.  Many road trips with his brothers and friends brought him great joy.

Mr. Winters was preceded in death by his parents Edward and Henrietta Winters of Ripon, CA. His is survived by his wife of fifty years, Jacqueline Winters; brothers Gary Winters (Birdie) and Duane Winters (Susan) of Ripon; sisters Beverly Kramer of Modesto and Marlene Snyder (Keith) of Grand Haven, Michigan. He will be missed by his children, Shirley Meeuwse (Jack) of Ripon, Larry Winters (Lynn) of Oakdale, David Winters (Nina) of Ripon and Mark Winters of Oakdale. He also leaves his beloved grandchildren Matthew Cavanaugh (Jenni) of Delhi, Eric Cavanaugh of Ripon, Katie and Carlie Winters of Oakdale, and Courtney, Mackenzie, and Michael Winters of Ripon. He also leaves behind great-granddaughter Grace Cavanaugh of Delhi.

Visitation will be on Sunday, March 13, from 2 to 5 p.m. at Deegan Ripon Memorial Chapel. Graveside Service will be held on Monday, March 14, at 10 a.m. at the Ripon Cemetery. Memorial service will follow at 11 a.m. at First Christian Reformed Church in Ripon.  One of the blessings that resulted from Gordon’s illness was the dedication of his life to the Lord Jesus Christ. Remembrances may be made to Knights Ferry Community Church P.O. Box 806, Knights Ferry, CA 95361. Gordon was loved and will be missed by all.  Arrangements by Deegan Ripon Memorial Chapel; please visit our website at www.deeganfuneralchapels.com