Lenny K. Hinman

HAMILTON -Lifelong resident of the Bitterroot Valley, Lenny K. Hinman passed away peacefully this week with his family by his side.

Lenny was born and raised in Victor, where he was an accomplished athlete and had just started working for the Forest Service before being drafted into the Vietnam War. He served his country as a heavy artillery gunman before returning home to the Bitterroot Valley.  He returned to the USFS as a seasonal employee cutting trail, which resulted in a 35-year long career fighting fires and working in silviculture. He proudly knew every single forested area, every trail, every canyon, and water source on the Darby Ranger District like the back of his hand.

Lenny was most proud of his time in the Forest Service as well as his 28 years as a ski instructor at Lost Trail Powder Mountain, his 32 years as a Darby volunteer firefighter, his volunteer work for the Darby Clubhouse, his inconsistent golf game and “downsized” vegetable garden.

On March 15,1969, Lenny married Carol and they have been inseparable ever since.  After raising two daughters, they travelled the world, skied all winter and golfed/gardened all summer.

Lenny’s passing was unexpected, and we are left reminiscing about all the things that made him one-of-a-kind.  He was fiercely protective of his girls, he never turned down a cold beer, a drive in the mountains or a night by a campfire.

Lenny is survived by his wife, Carol, of 52 years and his daughters, Carla (Matt) and Angela (Jay), brothers Jerry (Terry), Alvie (Hazel) and honorary daughters Karmella and Julie.

Private family burial with military honors will take place at Victor Cemetery. Out of an abundance of caution for our friends and family, we are opting to delay a celebration of life until it feels safe to gather once again.

The family suggests memorials be made to the Victor Cemetery Association ℅ Maxine Krowan, PO Box 625, Victor, MT 59875. Condolences may be left for the family at www.dalyleachchapel.com