PITTSFIELD, Mass. — George J. Winters passed away peacefully on Aug. 24, 2024, at his home surrounded by loved ones.

He was born in Pittsfield, on Sept. 15, 1946, to the late George A. and Sadie M. (Pomerleau) Winters and was the oldest of four children. He was a 1964 graduate of St. Joseph Central High School in Pittsfield. George was a Vietnam Veteran. He

was a Sergeant First Class at the United States Marine Corps from September 18, 1963, to April 22, 1968. He was awarded a Purple Heart with star, Good Conduct medal, National Defense Service medal, Vietnamese Service medal, and Republic of Vietnam Campaign medal. In 2019, George was also presented with the Veteran of the Year Award by the Berkshire Veterans Coalition. George retired from the United States Post Office in Pittsfield with over 28 years of service.

In 1982, George was a founding member of VVA Chapter 65 and later held many offices, including President, Vice President, and Treasurer. He was a member of the VFW Post 448, participated in the Honor Guard, and was the Rifle Team Captain. He was also a member of the American Legion Post 68. George was a gun safety officer at the Holyoke Revolver Club, Inc. He also volunteered at the Hole in the Wall Camp, as well as various churches through the years.

George is survived by his wife, Brenda Tessier Winters of 26 years and her children: Stephanie Trombley and Cassandra Tessier, along with two grandchildren: Lucy and Stella Trombley. He is also survived by his son (with spouse): Scott (Tammy) Winters and his children: Cameron and Parker Winters, as well as his daughter (with spouse) Tammy (Gene) Baker and her children: Colleen, Rebekah, and Gene Baker. George is also survived by two sisters (and spouses): Sarah (Bruce) Walker and Sandy Winters (Donna Orlando), along with many nieces and nephews. George was predeceased by his sister, Pauline Karpenski.

George had a sincere passion and drive to care for his fellow servicemen, as well as his extended community. He was loved by many and will be sincerely missed.

The Williamsburg Funeral Home was entrusted with his cremation. George's service will be held at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery at Agawam on Thursday September 05, 2024, at 9 AM. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Purple Heart Foundation or the VVA Chapter 65.