Vernon Roland Hink

Born March 18, 1920 in Binghamton, NY and passed April 5, 2018 surrounded by his family after a brief illness following his 98th birthday. He was predeceased by his wife of almost 73 years Julia, to whom he always sang: “You are my Sunshine my only Sunshine.”

In 1944, he joined General Patton’s 3rd army, 80 division, a corporal in the 319th Regimen. The Blue Ridge Division ‘s motto was: “We only move forward.” His boots were the first U.S. boots on German soil, crossing the Siegfried Line in the south of France, Hitler’s vaunted Western Wall. He said he was no hero but we all know better. Recipient of the Efficiency and Fidelity Medal, The Good Conduct Medal, Presidential Service Medal, American Defense Medal, and the European, African campaign medal with two bronze stars. He participated in the “Flight of Honor” to DC and was honored at the N.C. State Veterans Appreciation Game in 2017. Go Pack!

After the war Vernon returned to work and retired from IBM Endicott after 34 years all the while farming in Vestal Center, NY. He took his bride to Ocala, FL residing and golfing at the Lakes for 12 well deserved years. A master of the 7 wood. They then relocated to Cary residing at Jordan Oaks Senior living for the last 14 years. He was a loving husband to Judy and cared for her through her failing health. He developed loving relationships with Judy’s healthcare providers that have followed him and became family.

Vernon is survived by Gail (Jim) Ace, Howard (Sylvia) Hink, Carolyn Chieffo, Douglas (Mary Tom) Hink, and Gerald (Kirsten). Grandchildren: Stephanie, DeAnne, Beth, Ashley, Sarah, Erica, Jason, Josh and Khalyn. Ten great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his wife Judy and his eldest son, Vernon “Rollie” Hink.

Vernon is best described by his great sense of humor, “You gotta laugh “, his courage, toughness and his dedication to his family. The Greatest Generation had no better representative.

A Celebration of life will be held on Monday, April 9, at 1:00 pm at White Plains United Methodist Church, 313 SE Maynard Rd. Cary, NC 27511.

In lieu of flowers or gifts please consider a donation in his and Judy’s honor to Transitions LifeCare, 250 Hospice Circle, Raleigh, NC 27607.