Leonard Wingler

Leonard Wingler, 83, of Kannapolis, NC passed away on June 21, 2020 at Atrium Health in Concord after suffering from a short illness. A shining light went out this day in our lives but we take comfort that he has found peace in the loving arms of the Lord.

A native of Wilkes County, NC, he was born July 26, 1936, the son of the late Preston and Nina Darnell Wingler. His brother Ralph also preceded him in death.

Leonard enlisted in the US Army during 1953 and proudly served his country until his honorable discharge in 1956. While in the service, he attained the rank of sergeant and received decorations for marksmanship during the tenure. Returning to civilian life he became a long time employee of Cannon Mills (later Fieldcrest Cannon) where upon he retired in 1998 as shop foreman in the tin shop at Plant # 4.

His hobbies included cooking, fishing, and gardening along with a passionate interest in sports, particularly North Carolina Tar Heels basketball and Cincinnati Reds baseball. But his greatest fulfillment was his family of which he supported with pride, a compassionate heart, and a genuine interest in their development. He was present for all in times of need with benevolence and the priceless gift of sharing his time. Leonard will not only be missed for all of the above but also for his unpretentious yet humorous perspectives and catch-phrases about life in general. His influence and caring spirit will transcend through his family.

Leonard is survived by his wife of 62 years, Sharon "Yvonne" Wingler of Kannapolis; daughter Donna Robie, son-in-law Danny Robie, grandson Matthew Robie of Kannapolis; He was preceded in death by loving son Mike Wingler of whom his grandsons are Blake Wingler, with wife Ashton Wingler, great-granddaughter Blakely of Enochville and Joshua Wingler, with wife Lindsey Wingler, great-grandaughter Mya Wingler of Landis; son Brian Wingler, daughter-in-law Katie Wingler, grandsons Justin and Jacob Wingler of Kannapolis; son Kevin Wingler, daughter-in- law April Wingler, grandson Brantlee Wingler and granddaughters Brynna and Macey Wingler of Harrisburg. He is also survived by a sister, Betty Sue Barrett, of Kannapolis and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends at 11:00 AM, Wednesday, June 24, 2020 at Whitley’s Funeral Home. A funeral service will begin at 12:00 noon in the chapel of Whitley’s Funeral Home with Rev. Dennis Morgan officiating. Burial will immediately follow at Carolina Memorial Park with fully military honors conducted by the Cabarrus County Veteran Honor Guard.