Robert Donald Hinton

Robert (Bob) Donald Hinton, aged 75, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2024, at the Post Falls (Idaho) Veterans Home. He was born on June 16th, 1948, in Alexandria, MN, to Abner H. and Gloria G. Hinton. He was a 1966 graduate of Jefferson Senior High School and Alexandria Technical College majoring in Law Enforcement. Bob joined the United States Army on November 29th, 1966. After completing basic training, he attended A-schools in Ft Rucker, Al and Ft Campbell, KY. specializing in Helicopter Mechanic and Maintenance. Bob served in the Vietnam war from December, 1966 through July, 1969 with various elements of the 10th Combat Aviation Battalion as a Mechanic, Crew Chief, and a Helicopter Door Gunner. He was injured in action twice earning the Purple Heart with one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster. In addition, Bob was awarded the Bronze Star, Air Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal with 2 Bronze Service Stars and 1 Silver Service Star. Bob was also awarded the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Ribbon with Device, Rifle Expert Badge with Auto Rifle Bar, Sharpshooter Badge with Rifle and Pistol Bar, And Army Aviation Aircraft Crewman Badge. Unfortunately, his time in the Army caused him to have severe PTSD and respiratory illnesses that eventually took his life.

Shortly after his return from active-duty Bob married Bonita J Klimp on September 3rd 1969, at Congregational Church in Alexandria, MN. On July 27th, 1970 he became a proud father to a son, Eric David Hinton and later a daughter Heather Abby Hinton on October 20th, 1973. 

Bob worked as a Police officer with Jackson MN Police Department until 1974. Over the years he would work many different jobs including being a hunting guide, welder, truck driver, and furniture builder to name a few. Bob loved exploring, hunting and fishing, and going on adventures. He especially loved Black Powder Muzzleloader Jamborees and Retreats. 

He is survived by children Eric Hinton and Heather (Grant) Larson both of Alexandria, MN, Grandchildren, Sarah and William, his children's mother, Bonnie, sisters Linda and Patty; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Bob was proceeded in Death by his parents Gloria and Abner (Tex) Hinton and his brother Richard (Dick) Hinton. Bob is greatly missed. Blessed be his memory.

2 Timothy 4:7 - "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."