Calvin Lee Winbush

Age 82 of Lino Lakes.

A loving husband, dad, and grandpa, Calvin went home to be with the Lord on Monday, December 15, 2025. Cal was preceded in death by parents, Ernest and Luzell Winbush; siblings, Ernestine McCorvey and MacArthur Winbush. He is survived by his loving wife of 59 ½ years, Barbara; sons, Marcus (Karen), Lee (Miranda); grandchildren, Taylor (Blair), Jaik, Ethan, Annie, Joseph, Maddy, Lydia; nieces, nephews, and other loved ones.

Raised in a hardworking family in Mobile, Alabama, Cal learned early the values of faith, perseverance, integrity, and service that would guide his life and career. Encouraged by a cousin to pursue higher education, he enrolled at Alabama State University (ASU) in 1961, beginning his studies at Mobile Junior College. He became the first in his family to graduate from college, earning a Bachelor of Science in English from ASU in 1965, a milestone that marked the beginning of a lifelong commitment to education and student development.

Following graduation, Cal began his professional career as an English teacher in Vidalia, Georgia, and later taught in Newnan, Georgia. On June 11, 1966, he married the love of his life, Barbara Ann Paschal, beginning a devoted partnership that would span nearly 60 years.

In 1968, Cal and Barb moved to Rochester, Minnesota, where Barb accepted a position with IBM. Cal soon began working with clients at Rochester State Hospital. He continued his education, earning a master’s degree in counselor education from Winona State University (WSU) in 1972.

The couple returned to Alabama in 1972 when Cal joined Tuskegee Institute (now Tuskegee University), as Vice President for Student Life and Development. In 1978 Minnesota called them back, and Cal joined the staff at WSU. Over the years, he advanced through multiple leadership roles, including Dean of Students and Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs. Except for a five-year stint at IBM, Cal devoted the remainder of his professional life to WSU, ultimately retiring in 2006 as Vice President Emeritus for Student Affairs and Facilities.

Cal’s impact on students, colleagues, and the university was profound and enduring. In 2007, his contributions were formally recognized when a conference room was named in his honor and a Living History video highlighting his life and career was created. Beyond the university, Cal served on several boards in Rochester and Winona that were focused on cultural diversity and expanding opportunity for others.

A man of deep and abiding faith, Calvin came to faith in Christ at an early age, and he continued to grow in his spiritual walk throughout his life. He served faithfully at First Baptist Church in Rochester, Minnesota (now Autumn Ridge) and Pleasant Valley Church in Winona. After moving to the Twin Cities in 2011, he became a member of The North Church in Mounds View where he participated in the life of the church as much as his health allowed; he also completed several studies with Bible Study Fellowship.

He was deeply loved by his family, friends, faith community, and colleagues; he will be remembered for his wisdom, kindness, leadership, and unwavering commitment to serving others. Cal leaves behind a legacy of faith, education, and service that will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.