Bonnie Hinkle

Bonnie R. Hinkle, 84, passed away on August 1, 2020 at Serenity Home, Oregon. She was born September 9, 1935 in Elmhurst, the daughter of Frank and Ruth (Obrecht) Bolwahnn.

After living most of her childhood in Glen Ellyn, IL, Bonnie’s family moved to Oregon, IL, where she graduated high school. She then attended Northern Illinois University for 2 years and, after moving to Houston, TX, graduated from the University of Houston with a degree in elementary education.

While in Houston, Bonnie met Andrew (Andy) Hinkle and they were married in Oregon, IL on June 14, 1959. After living in Houston for 4 years, they moved to Illinois, living at times in Oregon, Mt. Morris, Polo, and Forreston.

After receiving her teaching certificate, Bonnie taught elementary and special education in Oregon, Byron, Mt. Morris, and Polo. She then worked for the State of Illinois at Highland Community College and for the Department of Human Services.

Bonnie and Andy were long-time members of Disciples United Methodist Church in Mt. Morris. Bonnie enjoyed sewing and knitting, skills that she passed down to her children and grandchildren. She and Andy traveled throughout much of the country, visiting 46 states. Toward the end of their travel days, they planned their trips around visiting lighthouses. Around home, they enjoyed watching the geese and pelicans on the Rock River. One of Bonnie’s favorite annual events was singing Handel’s Messiah with the Rockford Lutheran Choral Union. She also performed The Messiah with other choirs in Houston, Polo, Freeport, Mt. Morris, and Chicago.

Bonnie is survived by her husband, Andy; daughters Cindy (Tim) Webster, Forreston; Denise (Allan) DeGuzman, Hoffman Estates; grandchildren Laura Webster, Leaf River; Carla (Chris) Pope, Forreston; Adam DeGuzman, Evan DeGuzman, Nick Lucas, all of Hoffman Estates; Steve Webster and family, Milledgeville; loving niece, Julie Tracy, Murfreesboro, TN; and other nieces and nephews.

Due to covid restrictions, a private invitation-only funeral will be held. A walk through visitation will be held 1:00 – 1:45 pm Sunday August 16, 2020 at Farrell-Holland-Gale Funeral Home, Oregon. Social distancing and face coverings will be required.

Memorials may be directed to Serenity Hospice and Home in memory of Bonnie.