David Winkelman, who grew up on the next block from me (on good old Sumac Road in HP), was a fascinating individual: an outside-the-box thinker who was anything but predictable during the years that I knew him (second grade through early college). He was definitely drawn to fun and excitement, but when he put his mind on his studies he had star potential. I witnessed this firsthand senior year when we were study partners in Mr. Bruhn's European History class. Dave was determined to get into the U of I in Urbana and made an astounding late surge to get accepted. I had always suspected he possessed this sort of academic ability, and I was happy to see it realized at close range.

David was my first boyfriend, although I'm not sure he knew it! We reestablished our friendship upon my return to Highland Park after Hurricane Katrina. I am grateful that I got to know David for several years before his passing. He was quite a guy and is missed by many.  

Dave, Stay as spunky as you are up there in heaven, and have peace, only peace.