Gertrude "Trudy" Ida Hinkle

Gertrude Ida Hinkle, known affectionately as Trudy, graced the world on February 22, 1939, in Gary, Indiana. She left this world unexpectedly in her Denver home on Monday, February 5, 2024, at age 84.

Trudy was the apple of her family's eye, adored by her parents, Meinhard and Louise, who immigrated to the United States from Germany. Her childhood was filled with joyful adventures on the family farm, exploring around her hometown, or at the family grocery store. Fond memories of lively German dances and countless parties hosted by her parents remained etched in Trudy's heart. The bonds formed during those early years continued to be a source of joy, connecting her with close friends throughout her life.

A proud graduate of Griffith High School, Trudy's journey led her to Colorado Women’s College after a family trip to Colorado captivated her. In 1965, surrounded by friends and family, Trudy married George A. Hinkle III in her Indiana hometown. Trudy and George celebrated over 32 years of marriage before George's passing in 1997.

Trudy and George's story grew into a family, and they were blessed with two children, Heidi Floyd (Joe) and Jacques Hinkle (Jenny). Trudy took immense pride in their accomplishments, both professionally and personally. She watched with joy as Heidi and Jac grew into remarkable individuals, shaping their own paths and making their mark on the world.

Trudy's love and support for her children was unwavering, and she reveled in their successes. The bonds of family were a source of strength and happiness for Trudy, and she cherished every moment spent with Heidi, Jacques, and their respective families. Trudy loved being an Oma to her grandchildren, Aiden and Katie. It brought her immeasurable happiness to be an active part of Aiden and Katie’s lives. She loved watching them grow into the wonderful young adults they are today.

Trudy's professional journey began at National Jewish Hospital, where she dedicated several years of service. In 1968, she joined Front Range Community College (FRCC) at its original location off 62nd and Downing. She held several positions at FRCC, with her most notable managing the Registrar's Office. Upon retirement, she continued her passion for learning and technology, working as a Student Software Developer at Colorado Community College System. Her enjoyment of colleagues and the excitement of adopting new technologies defined this chapter of her life.

Beyond her career, Trudy was a creative soul, indulging in hobbies like ceramics, watercolor, and quilting. She found joy in shared moments with friends, engaging in travel, golf, and card games—pinochle holding a special place among her close group. Her adventurous spirit echoed in family travels, including visits to Germany to see cousins, quilting workshops on the east coast and attending high school reunions in Indiana.

Trudy's legacy is a tapestry woven with love, laughter, and cherished moments with family and friends. She will be remembered not only for her professional achievements but also for the generosity, warmth, and kindness she shared with those fortunate enough to be part of her life. In celebrating Trudy's life, we honor a woman whose spirit continues to resonate in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Trudy was preceded in death by her parents Meinhard & Louise Nissen, her husband, George, and her sister, Hilde (Bob) Conaway. She is survived by her daughter, Heidi Floyd (Joe), son, Jacques (Jennifer), grandchildren, Aiden and Katie Floyd, her niece LouAnne (Vern) Reinboldt and nephew Maynard (Denise) Conaway.

It is our desire to honor Trudy through time together with friends and family, sharing stories, and time together. Following in Trudy's path of taking a road less traveled, there will not be a formal service. We have arranged time to come together and honor the lives she impacted and the memories we share. We hope you can attend, share memories, laughter, love and a few tears. The Celebration of Life will be at the beautiful downtown Denver Botanical Gardens. Admission for the day is provided for all attendees. Wheelchairs are available at the front entrance as well as easy curb side pickup/drop off and covered parking. Throughout the Celebration we will share some of Trudy's favorite appetizers and small bites.

If possible, please RSVP to Heidi at COHeidiF@gmail.com, in order to help better plan for the caterer and venue.

In lieu of flowers, the family would ask donations be directed to either the Platelet Disorder Support Association for those who support people affected by Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura - http://tinyurl.com/PDSAforTrudy or a tribute to National Jewish Health in Trudy’s memory.