Art Vanwinterswyk

Art VanWinterswyk, a dedicated veteran, passed away on March 10, 2025, in Shreveport, Louisiana surrounded by his loving family. Born on November 10, 1944, in Los Angeles, California to Fred and Effie Winterswyk.

Art proudly served in the United States Air Force for four years, he worked on building jet engines as a mechanic in the Philippines during the Vietnam War. His military service was a defining chapter of his life, demonstrating his commitment to duty and country. Following his time in the Air Force, Art pursued an education at Bossier Parish Community College. He later retired from Libby Glass as a supervisor. His work reflected both technical skill and a passion for aviation that extended beyond his profession.

A lifelong enthusiast of flight, Art found great joy in flying and building airplanes. Art also enjoyed karaoke. Faith played an important role in Art’s life as he was a charter member of Living Word Chapel. He also involved with the American Legion, maintaining strong ties with fellow veterans and continuing to honor those who served.

Art is survived by his beloved wife, Susan VanWinterswyk; his children: Nathan VanWinterswyk (Catherine) of Bossier City, Louisiana; Matthew VanWinterswyk (Kara) of Shreveport, Louisiana; Elizabeth Hines (Doug) of Huddleston, Virginia; and Rebecca Johnson (Paul) of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He is also remembered by the mother of their children, Lynne VanWinterswyk.

His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Danny VanWinterswyk (Brittany), Solomon Hines, Ethan Hines, Analise Johnson, Drezden Johnson, Elara Johnson, and Tiffany Ortiz (Jersey); as well as great-grandchildren Serenity, Emma, Kate, and Braeden

Art is also survived by his siblings: Fred Winterswyk (Shirley) of Rancho Cucamonga, California; Karen Winterswyk of Hanford, California; Elaine Reeners (Marv) of Gold Beach, Oregon; and Annette Sherrill (Al) of Crossville, Tennessee. He leaves behind many cousins as well as several nieces and nephews. His beloved cat Sally Jane was a constant companion.

He is preceded in death by his parents Fred and Effie Winterswyk and sisters Janice Gearhart and Marie DeKock.

A visitation will be held on March 14, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Forest Park Funeral Home in Shreveport. A memorial service will follow at the same location at 2:00 PM.

Honorary pallbearers include Danny VanWinterswyk, Louis Clark, T.J. Adams, Paul Johnson, Jessee West, Solomon Hines, Ethan Hines, Drezden Johnson, Billy LaForge, and Doug Hines.

Art’s memory will live on through the lives he touched—family members who cherished him deeply and friends who admired him. In lieu of flowers the family ask that a donation be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital in Art VanWinterswyk’s name.