Craig Winborn

This is the story of Craig Winborn,

Craig Viereck Winborn was a man of drive, generosity, and joy. He will forever have a place in our hearts and minds for the happiness he brought to this world. Our “Bigdaddy” age of 81, passed away peacefully at his home in the arms of his loved ones on Tuesday, May 2, 2023.

Craig was born on April 16, 1942, to Bill and Rosemond Winborn in Yorktown, Texas and spent his childhood in Pampa, Texas. He was an integral part of the Pampa Harvester Basketball Team as they won two State Championships. His basketball talent garnered him a full ride scholarship to the University of Texas.  He ultimately graduated from Oklahoma City University in 1965. Craig married his high school sweetheart Donna Winborn Herr, with whom they had 3 daughters Becky Fletcher, Patrice Blanchard & Jamie Svoboda.

Winborn started Progressive Sales in 1978, with his brother-in-law Gary Herr in Odessa, Texas. From the first day, he worked happily and tirelessly to become a successful entrepreneur. Progressive Sales was one of Craigs passions; in fact, he never retired. Craig worked until the very end, something we can all admire.

When he was not working, he was outside enjoying the many gifts of nature. You could find him on his ranches or fishing around the world. He did all these things with his lifelong friends, who meant the world to him. Sitting around a campfire talking with best friends was one of Craigs most cherished memories.

Craig also enjoyed cooking. He was an amazing chef and enjoyed serving delicious and elaborate meals to the people he loved. He used meals to bring people together and create special memories.

One of Craigs exceptional qualities in life was giving to others. The act of giving in turn gave him much joy and excitement. He was a master of surprises; he would plan for months to make that special moment perfect. In doing so, Craig made memories that his family will never forget. Christmas was Craigs favorite day of the year, he created traditions that will last for generations.

Craig’s generosity extended beyond his friends and family. Whenever someone needed something, Winborn stepped in with open arms ready to help.

For 30 years Craig was an annual donor to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, as well as a lifetime member. He supported animal rescue programs across the state of Texas. He loved his own rescue dog Brandy. She quickly became his travel partner to the office, to the ranch and home.

“Bigdaddy” was such a bright light in this world. It is hard to put all his accomplishments into a page of text. One thing we all know is that Craig lit up any room he walked in. He had a loud and commanding personality that was not only larger than life but also welcoming. He was, for a lack of a better word, a legend. He touched the lives of all the people he encountered, creating memories that will live on for years to come.

He is survived by brother, Coyle Winborn; three children, Becky Fletcher, Patrice Blanchard, Jamie Svoboda; 4 grandchildren, Kendall Bertrand and husband Austin Bertrand, Devyn Fletcher, Madi Blanchard, Keaton Fletcher; and great grandson Brown Bertrand.

A memorial service will be held at 3:00 PM, Friday, May 12, 2023, at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. Reverend Dr. Jimmy Braswell will be officiating. Arrangements are entrusted to Sunset Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home in Odessa. To send condolences to the family please sign his guestbook at www.sunsetodessa.com.