It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Kathleen “Kay” Ruth Hinkes (nee Kennedy) on October 29th, 2026, just two days before her 99th birthday.
Born in High River Alberta on October 31st, 1927, she moved to Sooke British Columbia just before her 10th birthday where her family farmed for many years. Upon graduation from St. Anne’s Academy in Victoria, Kay attended Normal School. With a teaching certificate in hand, Kay travelled to the Caribou region of the BC interior where she began her teaching career in a one room school at Egan Lake. From there she relocated to Clinton BC and taught for many years. Kay’s love of teaching and the students under her care, were reflected in her many stories and memories.
It was in Clinton that she met and married Richard “Corky” Hinkes in 1950 and together they raised three girls and celebrated 63 wedding anniversaries.
Kay was active in Clinton community life. She was a lifetime member of the Ladies Auxiliary to the Legion, belonged to the Catholic Women’s League at St. Peter’s church and was the town’s first Brownie leader. She loved to laugh, solve puzzles of all varieties and always took great care and pride in her garden.
Most of all, Kay was a woman of profound faith and that faith gave her strength and comfort all the days of her life.
Kay is survived by her daughter Kathleen (Charles) and Melody (Terry). Also missing Kay are four grandchildren: Katrina; Gillian (Tanner); Sarah (Mark) and Kevin (Lindsey). She has eight great grandchildren: James, Ella, Laken, Nate, Andrea, Levi, Colter and Poppy. Kay was predeceased by her daughter Beverly in 2009 and her husband Corky in 2014.
We would like to recognize the amazing compassion and care of the staff in Aspen Winds at Peaks to Pines.
A private service will be held. Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.
Fantin’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with the arrangements. (403) 562-8555