Jesse Mark Winger, Sr.

In honor of my father, I would like to read the following poem entitled:

A Soul’s Soliloquy

Today the journey is ended,
I have worked out the mandates of fate;
Naked, alone, undefended,
I knock at the Uttermost Gate.
Behind is life and its longing,
Its trial, its trouble, its sorrow;
Beyond is the Infinite Morning
Of a day without a tomorrow.

Go back to dust and decay,
Body, grown weary and old;
You are worthless to me from today-
No longer my soul can you hold.
I lay you down gladly forever
For a life that is better than this;
I go where partings ne’er sever
You into oblivion’s abyss.

Lo, the gate swings wide at my knocking,
Across endless reaches I see
Lost friends with laughter come flocking
To give a glad welcome to me.
Farewell, the maze has been threaded,
This is the ending of strife;
Say not that death should be dreaded-
‘Tis but the beginning of life.

-Wenonah Stevens Abbott

I am now going to ask you all to stand….

My Dad was a very creative, caring and determined individual who worked very hard in all that he did and for all that he had. He was a true character with a powerful presence – a genuine teacher. My Dad should be known, remembered and adored for his playful spirit, his immense wisdom, his extreme generosity and kindness, his directness and honesty, his foresight, goodness knows for his orneriness, his good humor and for his wit and charm. My Dad was undoubtedly a very proud and brave man who believed in freedom and the right to pursue. He was loved by many and one who touched many lives worldwide. He will be deeply and dearly missed by countless persons.

I’d now like to ask you to please raise your glasses (make believe glasses as it so happens)…

In honor and acknowledgment of this dynamic and exceptional individual who was an amazing father, husband and friend…to a Man of undisputed Heart & Soul…a Man who needs no introduction (mainly because this is his funeral service) – to my Dad, Jesse Mark Winger. May he now spread his wings and soar freely above us all…pain-free and in sheer bliss. Here, Here!!! We love you, Dad.


- Angela Winger Mentesh (Daughter)


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