R. James Winkel, Jr., 73, of Sandusky, died Thursday, June 11, 2020, in the Providence Care Center in Sandusky.

He was born July 24, 1946 in Sandusky, and was a 1964 graduate of Margaretta High School. Along with his brothers, he owned and operated Castalia Trenching and Ready Mix. He served in the United States Coast Guard Reserve.

He was past president of the Erie County Home Builders and a former member of the Sandusky Jaycees. Jim and Dian were avid sailors and enjoyed sailing and visiting different exotic islands around the world. He was a member of the Sandusky Sailing Club and loved gardening.

Jim is survived by his wife, the former Dian Sweet, to whom he was married for 52 years; 2 brothers John "Susan" Winkel and Larry "Mary" Winkel both of Castalia; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Ralph "Ted" and Frances (Schoewe) Winkel.

Memorial services will be announced later by the Ransom Funeral and Cremation Service, Castalia.

Memorials may be made to the Sandusky Sailing Club, 742 E. Water St., Sandusky, OH, or the Maritime Museum of Sandusky, 125 Meigs St., Sandusky, OH 44870. Online condolences may be shared with the family at ransomfuneralhome.com