Stephen W. Winchell

Stephen W. Winchell, affectionately known as Big W and Winch, beloved husband of Denise (Dorval) Winchell, passed away on Monday, May 1st, 2023, surrounded by his loving family.  Born in Woburn, he is the son of the late Robert and Marjorie (Boomer) Winchell.

A lifelong resident of Wilmington, Stephen grew up and graduated from Wilmington High School, class of 1977.  A proud high school athlete and Wilmington High School Hall of Famer, Stephen excelled in soccer, basketball and spring track.  After graduating, he attended Boston University and Westfield College.  He and his high school sweetheart, Denise, married and raised their family in Wilmington.  Stephen was a talented engineer, skilled craftsman and inventor.  An extremely hard worker, he successfully owned and operated his own business, Timberline Woodworkers as a general contractor; where Stephen was known for his attention to detail and gifted creativity.

Stephen never wasted any free time.  He could be found on the golf course with friends, skiing, spending time on Long Lake or Sebago, whether it be on a boat or fishing, riding his Harley or fixing his cars, he was always busy.  Stephen would be first to try new things, learn about space, history and the weather; listening to good music or watching a movie, he made the most out of life.  When it came for down time, game nights were always welcome or a cold beer and football on t.v. would be just fine. 

Stephen was the type of person that people would gravitate to.  He was hilariously funny and did not take himself too seriously.  Stephen was honest and loyal; a loving husband, devoted father and dear friend to many.  He lived for his family.  Stephen will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

In addition to being the beloved husband of Denise, he is the devoted father of Brittany Winchell & Michele Winchell of Wilmington and their significant others Dennis Tully and Nick Soares. Cherished brother and best friend of Mark R. Winchell of Wakefield. Loving uncle of William Winchell, Jennifer Weidner, and her husband Dan. Beloved brother in law of Donna Dombrowki and her husband Kevin, Robert Dorval and his wife Wendy. Loving uncle of Morgan Murphy and her husband Dan, Paige Queenan and her husband Ryan, and Brooke Dorval. Danielle McLaughlin and her husband Patrick, Nicole Dombrowski, and many loving great nieces and nephews. Stephen will also be remembered by his many close friends and people he has been close with his entire life.

Family and friends are cordially invited to celebrate Stephen’s Life at the Cota Funeral Home, 335 Park St., North Reading (Corner of Rt. 28 and Park St. at the Reading Line) on Tuesday, May 9th, 2023 from 3 to 7pm. 

Stephen’s family kindly asks that instead of sending flowers, please make a donation in his memory to the Maine Lakes Environmental Association at http://www.mainelakes.org or to a Charity of One's Choice.

For information, directions and to leave an online condolence, please visit www.cotafunerahomes.com.

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