Carol I. Winkler

Carol Winkler-Ball, age 79 of Janesville, died on Saturday, July 6, 2024 at UW Hospital in Madison. She was born August 3, 1944 in Canton, IL and raised in Janesville, WI by her parents Ernie Franklin Ball and Naomi Darlene Ball-Herring. She graduated from Janesville High School, Class of 1962. Carol spent many years working in management in the food and service industry, accumulating a wealth of knowledge in the restaurant and hotel industry until her retirement.  She resided in many places throughout her years, most enjoyed were Janesville area and San Diego, CA.  

Carol enjoyed life!  She was always ready to shop, dine out and take long walks on a moment’s notice. When gathering with her family, there were always games, especially Yahtzee for hours!  Of her many talents, she enjoyed acrylic and watercolor painting, creating beautiful art that will be cherished for years to come.

Carol also had a passion for traveling and of her many favorite places was San Diego and New York City. She preferred traveling by train or bus, to see as much as she could. Carol was known for her love of the water, even living on a yacht in San Diego. Her fondest memories, however, were the times she spent with her family; especially going to the weddings of her children.

Carol’s family will treasure the memories of her cooking- her famous potato salad, fudge, Texas Cake, Chess bars.  Her tried-and-true recipes will be passed on and enjoyed by future generations.

Carol wishes for those closest to her heart to always remember:  I Love You & Stay Together. In the words of their Mother, her children would like to remind everyone to “Look Up!” and see the clouds, sunsets and sunrises!

Carol is survived by her 5 children; Brian Zittlow, Shawn Zittlow (Cathy), Laura Winkler-Constenius (Kelly), Duke Winkler (Wendy) and Brandon Winkler.  Also survived by her siblings, Connie, Carmen, Bob, Richie, and Carla; and many beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents and daughter-in-law Dawn Zittlow (Shawn). 

The Family will hold Carol’s Celebration of Life privately, at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Carol’s name to the Humane Society of Southern Wisconsin: www.petsgohome.org/donate/.  Cards for the family of Carol may be sent to Laura Winkler-Constenius at P.O. Box 1943, Grand Lake, CO 80447.  Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared on our website.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.