Remembering Frank and Beverly Winders

Beverly Ann (née Buckholz) Winders, born October 4, 1933, married Frank Rae Winders Jr. at the age of 19 in 1954. Frank was born December 1, 1931 and passed away at age 91 on September 21, 2023, and Beverly followed at age 90 on June 5, 2024. They were preceded in death by their sons Keith Winders, Mark Winders, and Paul Winders.

Beverly and Frank are survived and lovingly remembered by Beverly’s sister Barbara (James) Caldwell, daughter Lynn Rovelstad (Steve), Indira Winders, and grandchildren Emily (Conner) Stout, Devon (Savannah) Winders, Ted (Mackenzie) Winders, Ross (Nadia) Winders, Keith (Erin) Rovelstad, Nathan Rovelstad, Sondra (Jason) Hines, Colin Winders, and Sam Rovelstad, and great-grandchildren Trip and Charlotte Stout, and Smitty and Winnie Winders.

During their 70 years together, Beverly and Frank had many achievements, both individually and as a couple. They met during Beverly’s college Christmas break, and after a whirlwind romance, Beverly left school to marry the love of her life. Shortly after their marriage in 1954, Frank enlisted in the US Coast Guard. They were stationed in Miami, Florida for five years where three of their four children—Keith, Mark, and Lynn—were born. Frank was proud of his time serving his country.

After his service, Frank and Beverly moved to Birmingham, Michigan where Frank had a long and distinguished career with Chrysler Corporation. Their fourth child, Paul, was born in Michigan. Frank’s contributions to Chrysler included innovations like the automatic headlight shutoff and the development of digital clocks in cars. To finish his career at Chrysler he ran TC Chrysler Maserati which took Frank and Beverly to Italy for five years.

While Frank built his career, Beverly dedicated herself to raising their children. Known for her exceptional hosting skills, Beverly’s parties were always highly anticipated.

After Frank’s retirement from Chrysler, the couple designed and built a beautiful home in Frankfort, Michigan, which became a beloved gathering place for their family. They were avid tennis and golf players at Crystal Downs Country Club, introducing their grandchildren to the sports.

In the winters they resided in Vero Beach, Florida where they enjoyed an active life outdoors and acquired lots of lifelong friends. Vero Beach became their home away from home once Frank was no longer able to make the annual trek north.

Beverly was very proud of co-founding the Ladies MacKenzie Gathering. This was an organization that connected women globally to other members at golf courses designed by architect Dr. Alister MacKenzie. She was able to join these women in playing most of MacKenzie’s courses across the globe.

Northern Michigan holds a special place in their grandchildren’s hearts, filled with memories of Grandma’s Camp—a week-long summer tradition filled with beach outings, running the Sleeping Bear Dunes, boating on Lake Michigan, and other special excursions planned by Beverly.

Beverly instilled a sense of fun and good manners in her grandchildren, allowing them to practice formal etiquette at Crystal Downs Country Club dinners. Dressing up and having a fancy meal was always a treat, and Beverly and Frank took great pride in showing off their grandchildren to their many friends.

Beverly and Frank exemplified love, marriage, and family, offering a strong and supportive presence to those around them. Despite suffering tragic losses throughout their marriage, their deep faith in God helped them endure and overcome these challenges. Beverly was devoted to caring for Frank in his later years, ensuring his legacy would live on. Beverly eagerly anticipated reuniting with Frank and their sons in Heaven. She was a strong and steadfast woman, remembered for her resilience even in her final days. Frank’s loved ones will always cherish his sly sense of humor and bright smile. Beverly and Frank are dearly missed every day. Beverly’s life will be celebrated during a private family memorial service.