Donald D. Hinz, age 80, of Merrill, died Thursday, Feb. 20, 2014, at Pine Crest Nursing Home, Merrill, under the care of his family, the nursing home staff, and hospice care.
Don was born Sept. 12, 1933, in Merrill, son of the late Otto and Olga (Stoltz) Hinz. He married Marlene McCrossen on May 10, 1958, in Wausau. She survives.
Don enlisted in the United States Army on July 15, 1953. He served during the Korean War and was honorably discharged on June 22, 1955. Don was an employee of the former Anson-Gilkey Company, Merrill. He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Merrill. Don enjoyed playing cribbage and cards, shooting pool, hunting and fishing, camping, and watching western movies. He enjoyed sports especially watching the Green Bay Packers and the St. Louis Cardinals. Don also enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and being involved with their various activities.
Survivors include his wife, Marlene Hinz, of Merrill; two daughters, Sandy (Bill) Steigerwaldt, of Tomahawk, and Debbie (Paul) Wagner, of Merrill; one son, Randy Hinz, of Merrill; four grandchildren, Taylor Belant, and Andy, Matt and Michael Yorde; one sister, Janice Miklas, of Tomahawk; two brothers, Lloyd Hinz, of Merrill, and Marvin (Darlene) Hinz, of DeForest, WI; and several nieces and nephews. Don was preceded in death by one son, David Hinz; his parents, Otto and Olga Hinz; and his siblings, Leona Burnett, Arlene Spaeth, Ruth Krueger, and Clarence, Alfred, and Harold Hinz.
The funeral service was held Tuesday, Fe. 25, at Trinity Lutheran Church, Merrill. The Rev. Scott Gustafson officiated. Burial followed in Merrill Memorial Park.
The Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill, is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com.