Ronald Ted Hinds

1960 - 2025

Ronald Ted Hinds, age 65, entered into eternal rest and the presence of his Savior, Jesus Christ, on Friday, Nov. 28, 2025.
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Ron was born on Feb. 27, 1960, in Leon, Iowa, to Florence (Farrow) and Ted Hinds. The youngest of four siblings, he grew up with a spirited, adventurous heart. He loved sports from an early age and spent countless summer days at the swimming pool, famously jumping off the high dive at just four years old. Ron enjoyed sharing stories of the mischief he and his friends found themselves in-always with a knowing grin and a laugh that drew others in. He graduated from Central Decatur High School in 1978.
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Ron was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran Church, and faith remained the steady foundation of his life. He served his church in many roles over the years-teaching Sunday School, leading as president of the congregation, and helping wherever he was needed. He lived out a humble, sincere faith marked by a servant's heart, forgiveness, generosity, and deep compassion.
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On June 2, 1979, Ron married the love of his life, Debra (Vinson). Together, they built a family rooted in love and faith. They were blessed with three children, Jaron Hinds, Janessa (Andy) Redman, and Jentry (Matt) Benedict; and six cherished grandchildren, Blake, Claire, Isaiah, Ainsley, Cora, and Nevaeh.
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Ron was a devoted husband and father who worked hard to provide for his family. He coached youth sports, loved spending time outdoors, and never missed a chance to make his kids and grandkids smile. Whether letting them drive the old red pickup or sitting down for a heartfelt talk, Ron always showed patience, joy, and steadfast love.
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Ron began his career in 1980 as a combination man for Grand River Mutual Telephone Corporation. Through decades of dedication, integrity, and genuine care for the people he worked with, he eventually retired in 2021 as the company's CEO. He loved meeting people from across the country, seeing projects through from start to finish, and serving on several boards over the years. Ron approached every role with humility and a desire to honor God.
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Ron will be remembered as a man of God, a gentle giant, and one of the friendliest, kindest souls you could ever meet. He stood firmly for what was right, loved a good practical joke, and brought laughter wherever he went. Many saw him as a spiritual leader-always willing to help, always steady, always loving.
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Ron wanted everyone to know that salvation is found in Jesus Christ alone. He held dearly to Jesus' promise in John 14:6: "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." Even during his battle with ALS, Ron continually affirmed, "God is good." His unwavering faith remains a testimony to God's grace.
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Ron is survived by his wife, Debbie; his three children; six grandchildren; and three siblings, Keith Hinds, Randy (Linda) Hinds, and Vicki (Danny) Graham. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Judy Vinson; sister-in-law, Donna Hill; brother-in-law, Dennis (Linda) Vinson; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister-in-law Susan Hinds, and his father-in-law Guy Vinson.
A visitation will be held from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 3, at Zion Lutheran Church in Bolivar. Funeral services will begin at 2 p.m. after the visitation on Wednesday, Dec. 3, at Zion Lutheran Church.
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In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorial contributions, which will be distributed to causes close to Ron's heart.
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Additional services will be held and followed by burial in Leon, Iowa.