Pedaling for Parkinson’s Mourns the loss of Mr Bill Hinkle

February 18, 2021, Vail, Colorado - Dr Jay Alberts

People say San Francisco or Pittsburgh have the steepest or most crooked streets in America. They have clearly overlooked Burlington, Iowa and legendary Snake Alley.  

 

In 1999, RAGBRAI XXVII ended in Burlington and Bill Hinkle sought out and completed the Snake Alley challenge. I have done that climb and it's brutal.  The picture shows him at the top.

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Bill was an avid supporter of Pedaling for Parkinson's and joined our RAGBRAI group on multiple occasions. A retired school teacher from Dike, Iowa, he was quick witted and always there with a smile and helping hand.  He was a true pioneer when it came to Parkinson's and exercise.  I recall riding tandem with him one day on RAGBRAI and he talked to me about the importance of cycling and exercise in his battle against Parkinson's. A well defined man of character, a wonderful husband, father and grandfather, he never let the disease or his battle define him. 

 

His daughter Nadine and granddaughter Reese continue his RAGBRAI legacy, joining us as often as they can.  I always look forward to their company and stories of petting random cows or finding a farmer with some chickens. 

 

Bill was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2003. While I know he's riding that same climb in heaven, he will be missed. Our most sincere condolences to his family.

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Donations in Bills honor can be made to Pedaling for Parkinsons CLICK HERE.

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Obituary