John Winchell

John Winchell, age 67, passed away on November 18, 2015, peacefully and surrounded by family, at St. Johns nursing home. John was born on August 1st 1948 at St. Vincent Hospital in Billings. John, and his younger brothers Jim and Jerry, were raised at 622 Ave B. He attended Catholic schools and graduated from Billings Central in 1965. His senior year he co-captained the Billings Central Rams, with his good friend Mike Glennon. John followed his passion for football on a full ride scholarship to play for the Bobcats at Montana State University in Bozeman.

In the final years of playing he received an honorable mention as an All American. After graduating from MSU, in 1970, he returned to Billings to join his father Ralph and brother Jerry in the family business at Central Sheet Metal.

"Big John" continued to be an Athlete on the golf course and won the Yellowstone Roundup, with his father Ralph, in 1981. After retiring in 2011 he spent most of his time in Canyon Ferry boating with his family, friends, and Scottie Rascal.

He was preceded in death by his father Ralph, mother Blanche, and brother Jerry. John's loved ones left behind are his beloved daughter Betsy, brother Jim (Laura), nieces Christine (Adam), Carie, nephew James; and great nieces and nephews, Drew, Brady, Samantha, Will, and Chloe.

Cremation has taken place. Vigil Services will be held at 6:00pm Monday November 23 at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary. Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00am at St. Pius X Church November 24. A reception Brunch is to follow after the service.

Memorials may be made to any organization to benefit animals.