Margaret Hinkle Obituary

Margaret Jane Hinkle died peacefully on July 15, 2025, at age 83. She was born March 26, 1942, to Anthony and Elizabeth (Matzella) Saladin in Reed City, Michigan.

In loving memory of a beautiful soul, we are heartbroken to share that our beloved Mother and Papa Grandma has passed away, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and gentle wisdom that will echo in our hearts forever. She was the kind of woman whose presence made a room feel warmer, whose words were both comfort and counsel. Her heart loved everyone-family, friends, neighbors, even strangers who quickly became part of the family. If you were lucky enough to sit with her at the kitchen table, you know what it meant to feel seen and heard. Hours would pass like minutes as stories were told, laughter was shared, and your favorite meal-especially her famous cornpeas-was lovingly placed in front of you like a warm hug. She had an unshakeable strength that ran deep. Life didn't always deal her the easiest hand, but she faced every challenge with bravery, grace, and a fierce love for her family that gave her power even in the hardest of times. She survived so much-more than many ever knew-and she did it with her chin up and heart wide open. Her home was a haven, especially during the holidays. The smell of fresh-baked Christmas cookies, the sound of laughter bouncing off the walls while decorating cookies together, and the joy of family at the big Christmas party, all came together in the magic she created so effortlessly. And on summer days, you'd find her poolside at the neighbor's, floating or sunbathing while the grandkids swam, making memories that will last lifetimes. She had a love for the little things-soap operas in the afternoon, a cup of coffee at just the right time, and somehow always knowing what you needed before you even said a word. She listened with her whole heart, gave without ever expecting in return, and taught us that love is in the everyday gestures, not the grand ones. She was amazing. Truly. In every sense of the word. The kind of person you don't just remember-you carry with you. She was everything to us. And though our lives feel emptier without her, we will carry her with us-in every quiet moment, every family gathering, every morning coffee shared, every kind word we pass along in her honor. Her love will remain in our lives. Though our hearts are heavy with sorrow, we take comfort in knowing that she is being welcomed home. We can hear Dad/Papa Grandpa's voice calling out with a smile, "Come on Squaw, supper time," and Mom/Grandma's sweet farewell to all of us, echoing as it always did, "Alright, love you! bye, bye." She will be missed beyond measure, loved beyond words, and remembered always. Rest well, Mom/Papa Grandma. You were everything to us and always will be.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Lonnie, brothers, Harold, Bob, and George; and her sister, Dorothy Culp.

She is survived by her children: Frank Mund, Diana (Tom) Burnie, Debra (Rick Reed) Beedy, Dale (Mickey Whipple) Hinkle, Cheryl Winter, and Donna Rogers. Her legacy also includes 15 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren (with one expected), and four great-great-grandchildren. In addition, she is survived by her brothers, John (Katie), Gene (Vicki), and Leon (Diane), as well as her sisters, Rose Lee and Mary (Jeff) McBride.

The family would like to thank the staff and caregivers at Portland Assisted Living for the wonderful care they provided for their mother.

The funeral service will take place at 1:00 p.m., Monday, July 21, 2025 at Chase Township Hall, 8296 US-10, Chase, MI, with Rev. Sam Gordy presiding. The visitation will be from 12:00-1:00 p.m. at the same address. Interment will follow at Wilson Cemetery. Online condolences may be made at www.lehmanfuneralhomes.com.

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