SPARTA – Thelma Mae Winkelmann of Sparta, IL, passed away on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at 75 years of age. She fondly went by the nicknames "Snookie" and "Wink". Thelma was born in Lincoln, IL, on November 20, 1949, to "Fritz" and Dora Jean (McGee) Winkelmann.

Thelma loved her family dearly. She also loved to watch television, especially St. Louis Cardinal baseball and game shows. In her younger years, she enjoyed camping with her family. She retired from Spartan Printing after working there for over 25 years in the Bindery. Thelma occupied some of her retirement time by babysitting for local families and working at Dolly's. Kids always held a special place in her heart. She was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Sparta, IL.

Thelma is survived by her sisters: Debra (Bob) Mell and Nancy Patton; her brothers: Marty (Marsha) Winkelmann and David Winkelmann. She is also survived by her nieces: Bridget (Bill) Hurst, Andrea Welty, Nicole (Lance) Krack, Brittany (Andrew) Schmitt, and Emma (Brian) Mullen; her nephews: Josh (Deb) Winkelmann, Robert Winkelmann, Luke (Jen) Winkelmann, Jared Patton, and Seth Winkelmann; her many great nieces and great nephews and friends.

Thelma was preceded in death by her parents, her stepmother, LaVern Winkelmann, her sisters: Vanda Welty, Barbara Winkelmann, Linda Winkelmann, and an infant sister. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Dennis Winkelmann.

Thelma's wishes were to be cremated and buried with her mother. A Graveside Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at 1:00 pm, at Marissa Cemetery, with Rev. Carl Miller officiating. Memorials may be given to St. John's Lutheran Church, Sparta, IL and can be mailed to Wilson's Funeral Home, P.O. Box 217, Steeleville, IL 62288.