The University community lost a valuable member of its family Wednesday with the passing of Wilma Winter, a founding faculty member of the University of Lethbridge (Kinesiology and Physical Education), who was a good friend and mentor to many and a tireless community volunteer.

Winter was the beloved wife of Wayne and mother of sons Hal Winter of Lethbridge and Glen (Kerry) Winter of Medicine Hat, and grandmother to Lindsay and Ben Winter.

Described as the "Founding Mother" of the U of L, Winter was a pioneer in many ways. She was a member of the Lethbridge Junior College staff, and transitioned to the U of L in 1969. For a time the only woman faculty member on campus, she was instrumental in hiring women to join the faculties as the university expanded.

She was a strong supporter of physical activity and athletics, and coached the women's basketball team, among other duties.

Following her retirement in 1999, she was active in the community as a co-organizer of the 2000 Alberta Seniors Games, as a well-known bridge player, and as as a key volunteer for the Kiwanis Music Festival among many other community service activities.