Jerry “Grandpa Grump” Hinz
Jerry “Grandpa Grump” Hinz
Born July 10 1937 Delano Heights MT – son of Herb & Opal Hinz
Passed October 26 2018 Billings MT
Jerry was affectionately known as Grandpa Grump to most who knew him. He embraced the moniker & even named his truck GGrump. We knew him as Pops, Dad, Grandpa, Great Grandpa & friend.
Jerry had a long career as a volunteer for Worden Fire & Ambulance. In fact when he moved to Worden in 1963 it was his employer Bill Teeters of the Worden Creamery who suggested that he join the Fire Department. He gladly did just that & proudly served for over 47 years. During this time he rose to the rank of Fire Chief & President. He was involved in all aspects of the department & went on countless fire or ambulance calls at all hours of the day or night or weekends.
Jerry was also a bartender. These places of repute include the Worden Bar, Louise’s, Lil’s, Dintys, The Dark Horse & the Bear Trap. Many a fine topic was dis(cussed) over a cold Budweiser!
Jerry worked construction for awhile driving cement truck & various other aspects. Yet it was the school district at Huntley Project that saw him spend 17 years of his time before he finally retired. Here he took pride in his work as a custodian while seeing countless kids pass through the system.
Jerry loved to drive the backroads of the Huntley Project. He could always be counted on to make a pass through Ballantine or Leo’s or any of the byways of the area. After all it was important to know what was going on around the Project. Ol spot & Grump truck were fixtures.
While in school at Billings Senior High, Jerry met & married Rachel Rogers. Of this union 3 boys & one beautiful girl were born. Lonnie of Billings, Derek & Shawn (Shanna, Shayne) of Huntley, Darby (Tegan, Devin, Fairell, Brilee) of Worden, Lynda & Tom (Krystal) of Helena. Later Jerry married Emily Hayman & they also had many wonderful years together. He was preceded in death by his Sister Genevieve Kaftan.
To all the absolutely wonderful people at Bella Terra, we Thank you. His care was exceptional & we felt comfort knowing he was in good hands. In lieu of flowers it is suggested that donations be made to the Worden Fire & Ambulance Department. There will be a gathering at the new Fire Station in Huntley on Saturday November 10 at 11:00. Light snacks & appropriate refreshments will be available.
RIP Pops…
