Gary Eugene Hinkle, 84, of St. Joseph, Missouri, passed away peacefully at his home on December 29, 2025, surrounded by his children.
Gary was born January 16, 1941, in Fortescue, Missouri, to Fremont and Orlee Hinkle. He grew up in Savannah and graduated from Benton High School in 1959. On October 29, 1962 Gary was united in marriage to Linda Faye (Bruns)Hinkle. After high school, Gary served in the Air National Guard and worked for Continental Can, Sherwood Medical, and Peachtree Door before launching Hinkle Homes Construction. After retiring from construction, he started a Lawn Care Service which he worked until his early 80’s.
Gary touched many lives with his kindness and generosity. He had a deep love for family and a passion for the outdoors, woodworking, animals, and anything with speed—motorcycles, cars, boats, ATVs, even lawn mowers. He enjoyed time on the water and adventures at the Little Sahara sand dunes in Oklahoma. Known for riding his motorcycle year-round, his canary-yellow boat on Smithville Lake, and the quality homes he built throughout St. Joseph and Savannah, Gary leaves behind a lasting legacy.
He was fully ready for his greatest ride yet and will be deeply missed. Gary is survived by his children, Vicky Hinkle of Lee’s Summit and Scott Hinkle (Andrea) of Lee’s Summit; grandchildren Alexa Williams (Cole), Abriel Sutko (Bailey), Delaney Case (Issac), and Hayden Hinkle; and great-grandchildren Remy, Scarlett, and Colsen. He was preceded in death by his wife, Linda, and his parents.
Per Gary’s wishes, there will be no formal services. The family will have a celebration of life at a later date.
