Russel Hinkie

Russell Edward Hinkie, 87, Nisswa, died at Birchwood Good Samaritan November 12, 2011 surrounded by his family. Christian funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Monday November 14 at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Pequot Lakes with Pastor Frank Milo officiating. Family and friends are invited to gather one hour prior to services at the church. Memorials preferred to the Gloria Dei Sound System Fund.

Russell was born on April 8, 1924 in Waseca, MN, the son of Oscar and Valeria Hinkie. He graduated from Waseca High School and the Minneapolis Business College. After service during WWII, he returned to work at Cargill, Inc. and retired in 1984 after 41 years of service. He and his wife Berniece, a teacher, retired to the home that they had built on Lake Hubert.

His retirement years were full of service to others. He was instrumental in preserving the Lake Hubert Depot and then continued to beautify and maintain the grounds. He served as treasurer of the Lake Hubert Conservation Association for over 20 years and was active in the Nisswa Lions Club, the Interfaith Caregivers and Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Pequot Lakes.

He enjoyed gardening, fishing and being a part of his son's, grandchildren's and great grandchildren's lives. He was a strong believer in education enjoying the fact that his wife, sons and grand children all earned college degrees.

He was a living example of Matthew 25 and the parable of the Talents. His family believes that he is now enjoying "the joy of his master" and Jesus' greeting, "Well done my good and faithful servant."

Russell is survived by his wife Berniece, his sister Dona, sons Richard (Jennifer) of Payson, AZ and Mark (Linda) of Port Ludlow, WA; grandchildren Gretchen, Erik, Todd and Ociel and great grandchildren Addie, Ella and Cole.