‘The Fonz,’ Henry Winkler, set to speak in Sarasota to benefit Tidewell programs
Henry Winkler, who rose to fame as the cool biker dude “Fonzie” in the TV series “Happy Days,” is set to make a personal appearance as the keynote speaker for the 13th-Annual Tidewell Hospice Signature Luncheon on Feb. 4 at the Ritz Carlton, Sarasota.
Winkler, 75, who co-starred with Ron Howard, Anson Williams, Marion Ross and Tom Bosley from 1974-84, was known for catch phrases like “exactamundo,” and his habit of starting to comb his greased-back hair, looking into a mirror, and then putting away his comb as if he had just seen perfection.
The same year that Happy Days debuted, Winkler also starred with Sylvester Stallone in the movie “The Lords of Flatbush,” portraying Butchey Weinstein, a character that resembles The Fonz.
Winkler continues to be in demand as an actor, producer, director and childrens book author. He currently co-stars on the hit HBO comedy “Barry,” a role that has garnered him an Emmy Award for best supporting actor.
Winkler has received a number of accolades for his services to children, special education and the improvement of the human condition.
“We’re honored to bring Henry to our community for our largest fundraiser to benefit Tidewell Hospice’s programs and services that serve more than 10,000 people each year, regardless of their ability to pay,” Tidewell Foundation President Debbie Mason said. “Henry’s personal experiences, which include helping to care for his mother after a debilitating stroke and supporting his wife through her battle with breast cancer, will undoubtedly move and inspire our guests.”
Tidewell services include charity care, grief support services, specialized veterans care, music therapy, telehealth and other programs across Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, and DeSoto counties.
Notable Tidewell speakers in recent years have included Melissa Gilbert of “Little House on the Prairie” fame, Scott Hamilton, Olympic gold medal figure skater, and Lorna Luft, Broadway star and daughter of Judy Garland.
Tickets for the event will go on sale in December. For more information about the luncheon, visit tidewellfoundation.org.
Caldwell Trust Company has returned to serve as the exclusive sponsor of the 13th Annual Signature Luncheon. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available.
For more information about Tidewell Hospice, visit https://tidewellhospice.org/home/.
This story was originally published September 10, 2021 at 12:57 PM.
