Family Honors Soldier

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Bay County Civil War Soldier Gets New Headstone

Green Ridge Cemetery Dedication Ceremony

June 17, 2012
By: Diane Szczepanski

George Michael Winkler served his time in the military and has long been deceased. 160 plus years later, his life and service in the American Civil War, was re-honored in a moving tribute orchestrated by family members.

On Saturday, June 16th, relatives, friends and Civil War re-enactors paid tribute to Winkler, during a ceremony dedicating his new headstone at his gravesite in Green Ridge Cemetery, located on Tuscola Road at Columbus Avenue. Winkler had enlisted in the Union army in 1864.

Two great-great-granddaughters, Kathy Lutzke Mihalenko and Patrica Perez, both Bay City natives and interested in genealogy, began their search based on information found in a family Bible.



Local historian Jim Petrimoulx, who has recorded the grave locations and personal histories of hundreds of Civil War veterans buried in Bay County, was asked by Winkler's family members to help locate his grave.

According to records obtained by Petrimoulx, Winkler enlisted on Sept. 3, 1864, and at 32 years old, was a corporal with Company B of the 29th Michigan Infantry regiment. He later was promoted to sergeant. Winkler was discharged in Detroit in September 1865 and returned to Bay City.

Petrimoulx said when he located the grave, he discovered the headstone was worn and weathered and the inscription was all but erased.

When Kathy and Patty realized the VA (Veterans Administration) would issue a replacement headstone for their great-great grandfather, they put their re-dedication plans in motion.



Saturday was the culmination of Kathy and Patty's hard work and exploration. Ken Martin, served as Chaplain and gave the blessing. Paul Davis, Commander of Grant Camp 67 presided with Martin.



According to Davis, "The Sons of Union Veteran's of the Civil War, is a group that helps keep the memory of soldiers alive and we provide this service to family members to honor their deceased."



Rich Main, a volunteer with 'Bugles Across America' played 'Taps' as a final salute. The organization has over 7000 volunteers across America and offer their services online to VFW Halls and funeral directors, on a completely volunteer basis.