Meike Susanne Charlotte Klingberg Wintsch

MUNFORDVILLE — Susanne Wintsch, 68, died May 1, 2009, following complications with cancer at Harden Memorial Hospital, Elizabethtown. Her body could not keep pace with her spirit.

Susanne’s full maiden name was Mieke Susanne Charlotte Klingberg. She was born in September of 1940 in Berlin, Germany. Susanne had some inspiring stories of strength, optimism, perseverance, courage and humor from growing up in Germany during World War II.

When she was in her early 20s, Susanne entered the communications field as a radio operator for the United States Coast Guard in Germany. It was there that she was introduced to Fredrick Holland Wintsch of Munfordville. They were married on Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14, 1964, in Berlin, only a few weeks after meeting. Fredrick’s work as an electrical engineer provided them the opportunity to travel and experience many areas of Europe. Susanne enjoyed and immensely appreciated all people and the cultural diversity of the world.

Susanne often said that one of the greatest moments in her life was when she learned she had successfully met the many procedural and educational requirements to achieve U.S. citizenship. She proudly took her oath as a new citizen of the United States of America in New York City shortly after relocating there in 1968.

Later in 1968, Susanne, Fred and their daughter, Girtha Anne, moved to, and made their home on a farm in Munfordville, very near the farm where Fred had been raised. Their farm was their home base as Fred accepted engineering assignments to other areas and the young family traveled. Susanne particularly enjoyed their time in Utah and the vast and varied nature of that part of the nation. True to her nature, Susanne built enduring relationships where ever she ventured, and enjoyed contact with her many far flung friends all of her life.

Fredrick Wintsch died unexpectedly in March of 1975. Susanne continued to maintain the family farm as home, and to live, work and raise her daughter in Munfordville. The farm also enabled Susanne to fulfill her love of all living things, providing shelter and comfort for countless numbers of God’s creatures in need.

Susanne traveled the world extensively, especially Europe and North America. Her zest for life took her from New Orleans, La., to Prudhoe Bay, Alaska. She had an ongoing fascination with history, the world and all of the people and animals in it.

She enjoyed exploring, walking, camping, picking berries and reading books. She was afraid of heights but rode in a hot air balloon. She loved nature and all animals. Most of all, she loved and enjoyed spending time with her friends.

Susanne’s commitment to her community and her active involvement in its improvement was brought to the attention of the governor of Kentucky. On June 21, 1974, then-Governor Wendell H. Ford bestowed upon the honorable Susanne Wintsch, a commission as a Kentucky Colonel.

She strongly supported the Horse Cave Repertory Theatre. Susanne was honored to serve as the theater’s president of the board of directors during 1978-79 and again from 1984-86.

Susanne worked many years for the Hart County Board of Education in her capacity as a migrant program recruiter. Her commitment to education did not stop with those she served. She endeavored to enhance her own education and skills. Her Spanish language studies were but one example of her efforts to better reach out to those in need. Susanne was able to help people to recognize and feel themselves a part of the community. Migrant students, parents and guardians were all invited into the educational system and accepted as welcome participants. She facilitated and encouraged their access to the tools and skills needed to be good and productive citizens. She loved them all.

Susanne was very funny and able to see the humor in nearly any situation. She often said that her accent wasn’t as bad as it sounded, and frequently reminded her daughter, “Remember who you are and act accordingly.”

Susanne was adored by everyone who knew her. People and animals alike quickly recognized her kind, gentle and generous nature. She will be profoundly missed.