James D Hinkley

James Dale “Wrench” Hinkley, Sr., 74, died at his home in Smiths Creek on Thursday, July 10, 2014.

He was born April 15, 1940 in Marysville to the late George and Zota Hinkley. He married Nancy Louise Glyshaw on May 14, 1960 in Port Huron. She died October 31, 2005.

Wrench and his wife, Nancy, dedicated a large part of their lives to the Agapé Singers. He was an avid Tigers fan, a long-suffering Lions supporter, a proud Red Wings enthusiast, and a passionate follower of MSU and U of M teams. He loved street rods, drag racing, and NASCAR, and raced cars himself as a young man. However, his greatest joy was spending time with his grandchildren. He was by their side from infancy through the school years and into adulthood. He celebrated their successes and supported them through their struggles.

James is survived by four sons, Jim (Debby) Hinkley, Jr. of Washington Township, Andy Hinkley of Richland, Mike (Reneé) Hinkley of Kimball, and Kurt (Laura) Hinkley of Kalamazoo; and 11 grandchildren, Brad, Aaron, Ashley, Sara, Joshua, Ross, Shayla, Jordan, Maddie, Charlie, and Tyler.

Visitation will be 2-4 and 6-9 pm Tuesday in Marysville Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 16, 2014 in Pilgrim Lutheran Church. The Reverend John W. Hitzeroth will officiate.

Burial will be in Caswell Cemetery, Kimball Township. Pallbearers will be James’ grandsons.

Memorial contributions may be made to Literacy and Beyond (www.literacyandbeyond.org).