Local & Community
Palm Springs Honors Beloved Albertsons Clerk Richard VanWinkle After Tragic Accident
The Palm Springs community continues to mourn the loss of Richard VanWinkle, a longtime Albertsons grocery store clerk. VanWinkle, who worked at the Albertsons off Sunrise in Palm Springs for 25 years, was a familiar and friendly face to residents and visitors alike. He tragically passed away earlier this month after being struck by a car.
More than 100 residents came together to celebrate VanWinkle’s life in a heartfelt memorial service held near the grocery store where he worked. Jennifer Rawlings, a close friend and coworker, organized the event to provide closure and a chance for the community to say goodbye. Attendees shared fond memories of VanWinkle and his positive impact on their lives.
“A lot of people were asking about him, and I just felt that people needed some closure to say goodbye and show their respect,” Rawlings said. “Everybody knew him. He held a special spot in their hearts.”
VanWinkle’s dedication and warm personality left a deep impression on the community. Residents and out-of-town visitors often asked about him by name, highlighting his role as an integral part of Palm Springs life.
On the night of the accident, VanWinkle was walking near the intersection of Viticino and Volturno Road, believed to be returning home after dinner. The area’s poor lighting near the airport contributed to the tragic incident.
At the memorial service, attendees released balloons into the sky to honor VanWinkle’s memory. Jennifer Rawlings and other friends are now discussing ways to establish a permanent tribute, such as a bike rack with a commemorative plaque.
“Richard rode his bike all over town,” Rawlings noted. “A bike rack in his memory would be a fitting way to remember him.”
Family and friends are finalizing plans for a funeral service, which will take place at a later date. The community’s support underscores VanWinkle’s enduring legacy as a cherished part of Palm Springs.
By: NBC Palm Springs
December 23, 2024
Latest Instagram Posts
Cathedral City City Council votes to rename “LGBT Days” to “Pride Days”. The council approved the change in a 5-0 vote during its latest meeting, updating the official name of the city’s annual celebration. Stay tuned with NBC Palm Springs to see what this means to the Coachella Valley Community #CathedralCity #pride #CityCouncil #CoachellaValley #LocalNews
Discover the Coachella Valley with the Everything Palm Springs app. From iconic attractions and hidden gems to local restaurants, shops, entertainment and even filming locations, the map-based app is designed to help both visitors and locals find more of what the desert has to offer. Creator Lindsay Kinkle is also expanding the app with video tours and narrated guides, giving users another way to explore Palm Springs and the surrounding communities. Local businesses like Buena Matcha are also getting a chance to connect with new customers through the platform. As Lindsay says, there’s so much to do and enjoy here — you just have to know where to look. #PalmSprings #CoachellaValley #EverythingPalmSprings #PalmSpringsApp #VisitPalmSprings DesertLife LocalBusiness CoachellaValleyBusiness NBCPalmSprings
Social Time with Thalia & Jerry
What’s next for Palm Desert? Join community leaders, local businesses and regional stakeholders for the 2026 State of the City Address. Topics: • Economic Development • Infrastructure • Public Safety • Community Programs • Palm Desert’s Future CTA: Friday, September 18 | 11:30 AM JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort
Former Silvercrest CEO, William Rodriguez is expected back in court today in connection with the deadly 2024 Cathedral City hit and run that killed a woman. The murder charge was dismissed, but Rodriguez still faces felony hit and run and suspended license charges.
Social Time with Thalia & Jerry
Murder suspect Vicky Kim has once again not been cleared to appear in court. Kim is accused of killing her husband at their Palm Desert condominium complex. Her arraignment has now been delayed three times. Stay tuned with NBC Palm Springs as we track the latest developments in this case. #VickyKim #PalmDesert #CoachellaValley #BreakingNews #CourtUpdate NBCPalmSprings
Palm Springs is mourning the loss of beloved entertainer James “Gypsy” Haake, who has died at 94. Haake began his entertainment career at just 19 years old as a Broadway chorus dancer. After retiring from the stage, he returned to performing at 82, becoming the host of Carnival Cabaret at Oscars in downtown Palm Springs. A longtime friend of our station, Haake was a familiar and beloved figure in the Palm Springs entertainment community — and his contributions were recognized with a star on the Palm Springs Walk of Stars. His career spanned more than seven decades, proving that the spotlight never truly left him. ❤️ Rest in peace, James “Gypsy” Haake. Your legacy will live on in Palm Springs. #JamesGypsyHaake #PalmSprings #PalmSpringsWalkOfStars #CarnivalCabaret #PalmSpringsEntertainment #OscarsPalmSprings #PalmSpringsHistory
Social Time with Thalia & Jerry
Who makes the NBC Top 3, winner will be announced Sunday night on NBC Palm Springs, with the player who makes the number one spot winning a $250 prize from @hondaofthedesert! Comment below if it will be 1) Sterling Conley with the rushing TD, 2) Marcus Kennedy with the touchdown catch, 3) Cade Pinon with the big time sack, 4) Kingston Pellum with the pick-6, or 5) Caleb Hartwell with the saving throw #fypage #fridaynightlights #football #hondaofthedesert #highschoolfootball