Thomas C. Hinkle

Thomas C. Hinkle, 79, of Honey Brook, formerly of Thorndale, PA, passed away on Thursday, September 4, 2025 in the Meadows Healthcare Center at the Tel Hai Retirement Community.

Born in Columbia, PA on March 13, 1946, Tom was the son of the late LaVerne and Margaret (Pleam) Hinkle. He grew up along the Susquehanna river with his siblings and cherished the adventures of an active childhood. He was predeceased by his brothers, LaVerne "Chub" Hinkle and Barry Hinkle, and is survived by his sister, Diane Denison; sister-in-law Brenda Hinkle; nieces, Kristie Pommerer, Carol Mead, and Gail Pommerer; and nephews, Mike and Jeff Hinkle.

A 1964 graduate of Eastern High School, Tom went on to earn an Associate Degree in Engineering Technology from Penn State University, York Campus, in 1967. He began a 35-year career with PECO as a draftsman in the Engineering Design Division, later returning to school at Villanova University, where he earned a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering in 1976 while working full-time. Through dedication and perseverance, Tom advanced through the ranks at PECO, ultimately serving as Senior Engineer until his retirement in 2002.

Committed to public service, Tom was elected Caln Township Commissioner in 1998, serving two terms. He played an important role in guiding township growth while protecting open space, supporting local businesses, and fostering community pride. In his farewell address, his personal motto - "to improve everything [he] touched" - was highlighted as a defining principle of his service.

Tom lived that conviction every day. He was a proud Master Mason and member of Williamson Lodge No. 309 in Downingtown, serving as Worshipful Master in 1979. He was also known for his willingness to help others, whether mowing a neighbor's lawn, volunteering as Santa Claus for local events, or lending a hand wherever one was needed.

Despite all of his responsibilities - he still decided to take on his most difficult, and arguably the most important one to him, raising a son - Timothy Hinkle, born in 1989, who Tom is survived by. Strangely enough, he was unable to find a paid position as a father, so he settled for volunteer work. He became very involved in Tim's education, becoming almost a classroom handyman as Tim's teachers would regularly send home their broken mechanical pencil sharpeners to be fixed by Tom. He also regularly volunteered for other events at Tim's schools.

Tom married the love of his life, the late Diane (White) Hinkle, in May 1972. They shared 44 years together, making a home in Thorndale and raising their son before Diane's passing in 2017.

While Tom certainly enjoyed working, he had just as many hobbies that he participated in during his free time. He was an avid golfer and fisherman, as well as a home handyman. He also enjoyed traveling, most frequently on cruises. Finally, he enjoyed a very active social life, and loved to spend time with others, whether with friends or family.

Overall, Thomas Hinkle was a truly inspirational man who was dedicated to not just his family, but also his friends and community as a whole. He did improve everything he touched, and the lives of everyone he knew are that much better for it.

Thomas' memorial service will be held on Tuesday, September 23, 2025 at 11 AM in the Tel Hai Chapel, 1200 Tel Hai Circle, Honey Brook, Pa. with Pastor Dan Wagner of the Towerville Christian Church officiating, and assisted by Tel Hai's chaplains David Hicks and David Klingensmith. His son and additional family will receive friends and guests beginning at 10 AM in the chapel. Interment will be private with the family at Philadelphia Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in the memory of Thomas to either the Tel Hai Care Assurance Fund, PO Box 190, Honey Brook, PA 19344 or to Williamson Lodge No. 309, 210 Manor Avenue, Downingtown, PA, 19335.