Denise E. Winter

Denise Evelyn Winter, 54, of Hastings, Minnesota, peacefully passed away on January 14, 2024, at United Hospital, surrounded by her loving family, following a sudden illness.

Born on June 20, 1969, in Hastings, Minnesota, to Lawrence Joseph and Elizabeth Dale Caneff, Denise spent her early years in New Trier, Minnesota, and attended Hastings High School. She was baptized at Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Hastings.

At the age of fifteen, Denise embarked on her independent journey, moving out on her own and working as a dishwasher at the Trophy House in New Trier. Known for her strong-willed, loving, and selfless nature, Denise made a mark as an independent and compassionate individual.

Denise's path led her to Mark while working at Upper North Plastics in Cottage Grove, MN. Their love blossomed, and they became inseparable soul mates, exchanging vows on August 14, 1993. The couple shared a love for camping and fishing.

Together, Denise and Mark raised three beautiful children and were blessed with five cherished grandchildren. Denise found immense joy in actively participating in her grandchildren's lives, making it her true passion. Her dedication to the well-being of her family remained unwavering and foremost in her heart.

Known for her enormous sense of humor and the ability to find positivity in any situation, Denise was a compassionate and generous soul. Her selfless nature extended to both family and strangers in need, embodying a life of putting others before herself.

Denise held various positions throughout her life, including driving a school bus and working as a personal care attendant.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Mark Winter; daughters, BriAnna Caneff (Josh Halvorson) and Brook (Riley) Tarrant; son, Thomas Winter; step daughter, Marjorie Waldo (Carl Schotthoefer); grandchildren, Jackstin Halvorson, Ryann Halvorson, Hayden Tarrant, Abigail Tarrant, and Reese Tarrant; step grandchildren, Conrad and Riley; father, Lawrence Caneff; sisters, Teresa (Scott) Vogl, Tina (Ken) Speath, and Jennifer Kaase (Darren Hacker); brother-in-law, Steve (Kim) Winter; sister-in-law, Amy (Jim) Long, and numerous beloved nieces and nephews.

Denise was preceded in death by her mother, Elizabeth Caneff; sister, Mirinda Caneff; nephew, Jacob Otto; father-in-law, Warren Winter; mother-in-law, Rose Winter; brother-in-law, Gilbert Winter; and sister-in-law, Lisa Hanson.

A funeral service in memory of Denise will be held on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, at 10:30 AM at Our Saviour's Evangelical Lutheran Church, 400 9th St. W. in Hastings. A visitation will precede the service by one hour, followed by a reception. Interment will take place at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

Memorials preferred in lieu of flowers.