Obituary of Richard H. Winter

On May 20, 2017, Richard H. Winter, M.D. decided to take his own life.  He was born in Sioux City, IA, April 28, 1935, son of Helen Z. Hurlburt and Leon A. Winter.

Educated in the Sioux City school system, he earned a B.S. degree from the University of Iowa in 1957 and an M.D. degree in 1961.  He served in the U.S. Army from 1962 to 1964.  After discharge he practiced Family Medicine in Redlands, CA, later returning to Iowa City for a residency in Dermatology.

Richard, along with Anthony Colby, MD, founded the Free Medical Clinic in 1971.  They wanted to be able to provide health care to all who needed it.  He volunteered there for many years.  The Free Medical Clinic now offers free dental care as well.

Richard was instrumental in founding the Emma Goldman Clinic in 1973, a not-for-profit organization.  The intention was to provide both men and women in all stages of life with quality reproductive health care, education and services.

He retired to Colorado where he especially enjoyed hiking and fishing in the Rockies, playing golf, and the study of history and Spanish.  He was an avid reader.

Richard is survived by his three children, Anthony, Kirsten (Charlie Van Tassel) and Aaron, two nephews, John and Tom Winter and many friends.  His parents and brother George died earlier.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be directed to the Free Medical Clinic, the Bur Oak Land Trust or the charity of one’s choice.

A gathering of friends and family will be held at Pleasant Valley Golf Club, 4304 Sand Road SE, Iowa City, from 1pm to 3 p.m., on Saturday, June 10, 2017, to share memories and stories.  Online condolences and reflections may be sent to the family through the Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation website: www.gayandciha.com