August Otto Hinzman

August Otto Hinzman, known by most as “Buddy”, age 89 and resident of Gainesville, TX, passed away February 24, 2026 in Gainesville.

Buddy was born March 13, 1936 in Gainesville. He was raised in Bolivar and attended school in Sanger. He excelled in football and basketball, and served as Student Body President. Mr. Hinzman first attended Texas A&M and played football there. He then graduated from North Texas State in 1959.

Mr. Hinzman married Jo Walton on February 11, 1960 in Valley View, TX. Shortly thereafter, he joined the Army National Guard and served nearly three years. Mr. Hinzman’s career in education took him to the towns of Godley, Southlake, Keller, and Era, where he worked as a teacher, coach, and principal through the years.

Mr. Hinzman was a jack-of-all-trades who could fix or build anything, including his own house. He also kept an extensive garden and pecan orchard. In retirement, Mr. Hinzman volunteered and coached at St. Mary’s School in Gainesville, where he was a devoted member. He also enjoyed fishing and studying history, archeology, and geology.

Survived by: wife Jo Hinzman; son Kevin Hinzman (Leslie) of Denton; son Kent Hinzman (Cindy) of Gainesville; grandchildren: Meranda, Kyle, Samuel, Korey, and Lucas; and great-grandchildren: Rowan, Parker, Lou, August, Daniel, and two expecting.

Predeceased by: parents Otto August and Rose Marie (Dietz) Hinzman; grandchild Kaelin; and sister Anna Frances Cogburn.

A Prayer Service, with visitation to follow, is scheduled for Sunday, March 1, 2026, beginning at 2:00 p.m., at Geo. J. Carroll & Son Funeral Home, Gainesville. A Funeral Mass is scheduled for Monday, March 2, beginning at 10:30 a.m., at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Gainesville. Mr. Hinzman will be laid to rest at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary’s School, Gainesville, TX.