Wade Alan Vanwinkle, known affectionately as "Papa" or "Coach" to his family and friends, entered into heaven on February 25, 2022 at the age of 61.

Wade was born on September 19, 1960 in Odessa, Texas to George Raph and Nancy Ruth (Whiteside) Vanwinkle. Wade was a 1979 graduate of Sapulpa High School where he was a member of the Blue Blazed Marvels Choir and played numerous sports, including his favorite, football.

Wade went on to Oklahoma State University, earning a walk-on spot on the football team his Freshman year and graduated in 1983 with a bachelor's degree. Wade remained a lifelong fan of the OSU Cowboys and Dallas Cowboys football teams.

Wade began his professional career as an educator and coach in Cameron, Texas. Wade later taught at Wilkinson Middle School in Mesquite, Texas and went on to teach at Jackson Middle School in Garland, Texas. During his teaching career, Wade made lifelong friends while working with the "paint crew" in his spare time where they formed a bond and created a brotherhood.

Wade retired from coaching and teaching in 2010 and moved to Oklahoma City, working for the Cleveland County Sheriff Department before ending his professional career.

Wade's greatest joys were spending time with his grandchildren, watching football, and relaxing on the weekends with Susan at Cedar Blue.

Wade was preceded in death by his parents, George and Nancy Vanwinkle.

Wade is survived by his brother Barry (Kim) Vanwinkle of Sapulpa, Oklahoma; his wife Susan Vanwinkle of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; his children Jilllian (Nick) Salmons of Cleburne, Texas; Taylor Vanwinkle of Rowlett, Texas; Katie (Sean) Loyall of Okarche, Oklahoma; Grant (Casey) Vanwinkle of Richardson, Texas; Caroline Shepard of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and his grandchildren Ameryk Salmons, Alaric Salmons, Fisher Loyall, Ansyn Salmons, Koy Loyall, and Alese Salmons; niece Heather (Will) Sleightholm; nephew Jordan (Katie) Vanwinkle; along with cousins, family, and friends.

In Wade's memory, please feel free to wear something OSU themed, or the colors black and orange to the memorial service.

Following the service, the family invites you to join them for food and fellowship at Welcome Home Adult Daycare 11720 S Western Ave STE A, Oklahoma City, OK 73170.

The family requests that any monetary donations be made in the name of "Wade Alan Vanwinkle" to the Oklahoma Blood Institute, as Wade was an avid supporter of this life saving organization.