Frederick Hinz Obituary

In Loving Memory of Frederick "Fred" Hinz (1948–2025)
Frederick "Fred" Hinz passed away peacefully at the age of 77 on July 2, 2025, surrounded by family. Per Fred's wishes, a Celebration of Life ceremony will be held on Saturday, July 12, at O'Guinn Funeral Home in Clio. Visitation will be held from 11:30AM until 2:00PM, followed by a brief memorial service. To align with the celebratory tone, Fred requested that people dress comfortably, avoid wearing black, and feel free to share stories involving Fred that brought you a laugh. The memorial service will be livestreamed for those unable to attend. A celebratory meal will be held at the Genesee Elementary School Gymnasium at 4:00PM.
Born on February 14, 1948, in Flint, Michigan to June (Lauderman) Hinz and Stanley Hinz, Fred grew to be known for his big personality and intellectual curiosity. These traits endeared Fred to many who crossed his path, and in 1970, he married Linda (Hecht) Hinz of Vassar, Michigan. Fred earned a Bachelor's degree from Olivet College, after which time he and Linda relocated to Louisiana so that Fred could pursue a Master's degree in history from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Fred and Linda ultimately returned to their Michigan roots, settling in Genesee and then Mount Morris. Together they welcomed two children, Alia and Matt, who brought them immeasurable joy. Fred supported his family with 30 years of work at GM, spending time in the foundry and assembly plants, building friendships, and accumulating a wealth of wild stories.
Having been predeceased by Linda, Fred spent his retirement as a cornerstone of Genesee. Fred volunteered at the Genesee Food Pantry, guided children at Whaley Children's Center and as "Flashcard Fred" at Genesee Schools, and he ultimately served as president of the Genesee School Board. Fred was also a member of the Rotary Club of Flint, where he conducted and often won the raffle, much to the disbelief of other attendees. Despite this busy schedule, Fred was a season ticketholder for the Flint Firebirds, always attending with his cowbell in tow. Weather-permitting, Fred could also be found cruising around Genesee in his Corvette, swapping stories and sharing wisdom with nearly everyone he encountered.
In recent years, Fred formed a special friendship with Marsha Galbraith, who was his fiancée at the time of his passing. Through his many health scares over the years, his children remained an enduring source of pride. Fred is survived by: Children: Alia ("New York Matt") Ticker and Matt (Dawn) Hinz; His close sister-in-law Cindy Kaunitz; His close cousin, Wayne Hecht. Thank you to the LaVigne home, Compassus Hospice, Drs. Mirza and Halim, and the Genesee community for their unending support.
In keeping with Michigan's tradition of perpetual roadwork that Fred so "loved," the N. Mill St. entrance to the funeral home is closed. The alternative entrance can be accessed by following Center St. to Curry St.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to one of the following charities: the Genesee High School Linda Hinz Memorial Fund, Olivet College, LaVigne Home for Compassionate Care, or the Genesee (Thetford) Food Pantry.
O'Guinn Family Funeral Home
Clio Chapel
810-686-5070
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