Walter L. Hinkle

Walter Lloyd Hinkle, 78, died Wednesday, July 7, 2010 at his home in McPherson, KS. A rosary service was held at 10 a.m., Saturday, at St. Augustine's Catholic Church in Washington, KS. A Mass of Christian Burial followed at 10:30 a.m. Father David Metz and Father Loren Worth officiated. Burial was in the Washington City Cemetery. Walt was born March 14, 1932 at Linn, KS, son of Streper and Clara (Black) Hinkle. He graduated from Washington High School in 1950. He enlisted in the US Navy, served in the Korean Conflict and was honorably discharged in 1955. On May 18, 1953, Walter was united in marriage to Lorretta Ouellette at Long Beach, CA. After his discharge from the U.S. Navy, Walter and Lorretta moved throughout the south to work in mobile home sales and returned to Washington in 1964. Walter later went into business with his brother in tractor and combine sales. In the early 70’s, he and Lorretta bought the Swirly Top Steakhouse from her parents. In 1986, they moved to Topeka, where he was maintenance manager of an apartment community. In 1999, he and Lorretta retired and traveled in a motorhome, working in RV retail supplies. Walter enjoyed traveling, fishing, bird watching, and photography. They also visited Catholic Churches along the routes they traveled. He especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Laura Bolejack. Survivors include his wife, Lorretta of McPherson; two daughters, Christine Wendlandt (Terry) of Bellevue, NE, Cynthia Daharsh (Daniel) of McPherson; one brother, Ivan Hinkle (Viva) of Washington; 4 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild. A memorial fund has been established and will be designated later. Contributions may be sent in care of Ward Funeral Home. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Walter L. Hinkle, please visit our flower store.