Taylor Watzel, age 16, of Winner, passed away on October 19, 2016 at the Sanford USD Medical Center in Sioux Falls. Funeral Services will be held at 10:00 AM Monday, October 24, 2016 at the Winner Armory in Winner. Burial will follow at the Winner City Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 6:00-7:00 PM Sunday, October 23, 2016 at the Winner Armory with a Prayer Service starting at 7:00PM.

Taylor Dean Watzel was born on January 10, 2000, to Dean and Barbara Watzel in Winner, SD.  Taylor is the 2nd of 3 children.

Taylor was our energetic, outgoing, friendly young man, from his crooked little grin to his full on smile that was very contagious.  Whether he had anything to say or not, there was always a grin that gave him away.

Although he was the 2nd child he took on the role of "big brother".  Taylor loved his siblings especially Tristan, he took him under his wing and made sure he was looked after.  He made sure he looked after Madaline the same way.  She was never far away.

Every day he would have rather stayed home to help out on the family farm and feedlot, walking side by side with Mom & Dad from feeding cattle to baling hay and caring for every animal wild or tame. Taylor could always be found carrying a baby kitten in his hood or a baby porcupine in his pocket, he was always a protector.  Not only was he an awesome brother, cousin and buddy he was a great role model and the "best big friend" to so many.

Taylor also went above and beyond in his school activities.  He received many academic excellence awards.  Taylor was involved in so many great activities.  They range from 4-H, FFA, Football and wrestling.  He was also the best Flag Football Coach any kid could ever ask for.  He loved to go to 4-H and FFA camp, to meet new friends and catch up with old friends.  He also made great connections with lots of people through wrestling and football and made sure to stay in contact with them.

Taylor's life was cut way to short….Taylor will never be forgotten but he will always live on in our hearts. In keeping with Taylor's loving and generous spirit it was his decision to donate life so that others may live on.

Taylor is survived by his parents Dean and Barb, brother Tristan, sister Mada, grandparents Gay Patmore, Ed & Bonnie Watzel and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Taylor is preceded in death by his Grandpa Bob Patmore, Great-Grandparents Bud & Mildred Kemnitz and Charles & Madeline Watzel, Clare & MayJean Wical and Bill & Minnie Patmore.