Donald S. Winter, Jr., 93, of Winter Knoll Farm in Norwich, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 28, 2016, in Norwich, NY. Don was born in Bronx, NY, the son of Donald S. Winter and Senta C. Winter. He spent his childhood in Teaneck, NJ. where he graduated from high school and later he received his associate’s degree in Animal Husbandry from SUNY Delhi College of Agriculture and Technology. On June 29, 1952, Don married Constance Cannova in Bergenfield, NJ and he began his career as a dairy farmer in 1954 in Walden, NY. Don and his family moved to Norwich in 1967 where he established the Winter Knoll Farm. He found peace and joy in the rhythm of the changing seasons, and he respected the natural order of life. An avid reader, he possessed a keen intellect and was interested, and could speak about, a wide array of subjects. He believed in the strength of the family, and his positive influence was felt by all who knew him. He possessed an extraordinary work ethic, and he devoted his life to the stewardship of his farm and the land he loved.
Don belonged to the American Dairy Association, the Free and Accepted Masons and he hosted Cornell Veterinary students for 3 summers. Don is survived by his daughters; Nanette Johnston (Ted), Valerie A. Winter and Renee Winter- Bertsch (James), his son; Donald S. Winter III (Margaret), his grandchildren; Jason Berger (Angela), JoAnn Krywy (Brian), Ron Johnston (Michelle), Katy Boots (Cory) , Travis Gould (Dionne) and several great grandchildren, special nieces and nephews. Don was predeceased by his brother Karl L. Winter and his previous wife Constance (Cannova) Winter. Calling hours will be held on Sunday, January 1, 2017, New Year’s Day from 1:00pm to 3:00pm at the Johnston Funeral Home in Morris. A private burial of ashes will take place at Woodland Cemetery in Delhi, NY in the summer of 2017. In lieu of flowers a donation may be made in Don’s name to Sierra Club Foundation 2101 Webster St. Suite 1250 Oakland, CA 94612 or foundation@sierraclubfoundation.org. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.johnstonfh.com.
Arrangements are by the Johnston Funeral Home.