William Hinkle

William R. “Bill” Hinkle

William Ray Hinkle, 85, of Indianapolis, passed away on March 17, 2018. Bill was born March 1, 1933 in Bloomington, Indiana. Bill was preceded in death by his parents Ray J. Hinkle (d. 1961) and Louise Parks Hinkle (d. 2010), his first wife Murilyn Fuller Hinkle (d. 1991) and his daughter Linda Rae Hinkle (d. 1974). His is survived by his wife Annabelle Johnston, his daughter Susan Hinkle, his son Steven Hinkle, three step-children Maria Hamrick (Dan), Matt Johnston, Kevin Johnston (Chris), six step-grandchildren Sarah (Brian), Andrew (Jennifer), Tatum, Jakob, Liam, Serenity, and four step-great-grandchildren Meadow, Brooklyn, Honor and Georgia.
Bill graduated from University High School in Bloomington, and Indiana University B.S. Business. He was a member of Theta Xi Fraternity. He served in the U.S. Navy and Navy Reserve, with active duty during the Korean War 1954-1956 onboard the U.S.S. Columbus CA-74. Bill had a success career in sales with 16 years at 3M, and then as co-owner of Bennett, Cook and Hinkle. After he retired from business, he spent several years substitute teaching in the Carmel and Westfield school districts. Bill never met a stranger. He carried with him many lifelong friendships, and led a full and rich life. He saw the world serving in the Navy. He loved sports whether playing football at IU, Great Lakes Naval Base or working the equipment room at the Baxter YMCA. He was an avid IU fan and typically one of the last to leave the stadium regardless the score. It is with great sadness that he leaves his family and friends now, but he rests in peace at the culmination of a life replete with amazing stories. His stories ranged from playing at the Governor’s mansion as a boy, performing on an Indianapolis kid’s radio show, his adventures as a member of the River Rats, his naval service with Admiral Arleigh Burke onboard, and his wealth of work experiences. He finished life with a legacy of kindness and generosity of spirit.
The funeral service will be held at 12:30 Saturday March 24th at Flanner & Buchanan – Washington Park East, 10722 E. Washington St., Indianapolis, IN 46229 with visitation from 10:30-12:30 Saturday March 24th prior to the funeral. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to: Riley Children’s Foundation – Oncology, 30 S. Meridian St., Suite 200, Indy, IN 46204 in memory of William R. Hinkle, or at www.rileykids.org.