Ben Lawrence Wintler

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Ben Lawrence Wintler, who left us on February 7, 2026, in Wenatchee, Washington, following a short but courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Born on August 18, 1954, in Portland, Oregon, to Rebecca Ann Robison Wintler and Carl Butler Wintler, Jr., Ben lived a life defined by hard work, humor, and wholehearted connection to others. Ben was a plumber by trade, but to those who knew him, he was so much more. Over a remarkable 50-year career in the industry, he touched countless homes, buildings, and lives - building lasting friendships along the way. In the early 1990s, he founded Clearview Plumbing, a venture that reflected both his entrepreneurial spirit and his commitment to serving his community. In June 1996, he moved his family from Bothell, Washington to Cashmere, Washington, where he continued to grow both his business and his circle of friends. Some of Ben’s favorite hobbies involved 2 wheels and a challenge. In 1980 he took 3 months to ride his bicycle from San Diego, California to St. Augustine, Florida, camping and socializing along the way. Of the southern states, New Mexico was his favorite. He eventually traded his bicycle for motorcycles, owning several over the years. He thoroughly enjoyed riding his Harley Davidson over the last decade, taking it across the PNW, down the Oregon Coast, and beyond. His favorite motorcycle destination was any beach with good company. He truly didn’t know a stranger. Ben could strike up a conversation with anyone about anything... and usually did. He was famous for his Carhartt overalls, his “Santa beard”, his beloved wiener dog and constant companion, “Weenis,” the cheesecakes he regularly baked, and his quick wit that could light up any room (and make some people uncomfortable!). Generous, kind, and always ready with a story, he was, as many friends have lovingly said, “quite the character.” Large in both physique (a big teddy bear!) and personality, Ben was unforgettable, and his absence leaves a void which is impossible to fill. Above all, Ben loved his family. He is survived by his children: Valerie Wintler (partner Tyler Judevine), Travis Wintler (partner Jessica Buck), and Molly Wintler; his cherished grandson, Callum Judevine; His brothers Casey (Lisa) and Marty (Kelly), and his nieces Paige Gard (Alex) and Taylor Patterson (Kris); and his significant other, Deborah Boitano. The love he poured into his family and friends will continue to echo in the stories they share and the lessons he passed down. Ben’s legacy lives on not only in the pipes he laid and the business he built, but in the laughter he sparked, the friendships he formed, and the love he gave so freely. A celebration of life will be held in the coming weeks – Details to follow! In the meantime, those who plan to attend should prepare their favorite overalls and an appetite. In lieu of flowers, we kindly ask for donations of hats, socks, and blankets, which will be given to individuals undergoing chemotherapy treatments for cancer. If unable to bring a physical donation, a monetary donation can be made in Ben’s name to Cancer Care of North Central Washington. Please express your thoughts and memories on the online guestbook at jonesjonesbetts.com. Arrangements by Jones & Jones – Betts Funeral Home.

Tributes

Ben Lawrence Wintler

August 18, 1954 - February 7, 2026