Leo Erwin Pinke, 80, of Hastings, MN, passed away on Oct. 12, 2024, at Regina Transitional Care Center.
Leo was born on July 7, 1944, in Hastings, MN, at Latto Hospital, to Mildred F. (Rentz) and Erwin G. Pinke. He was a graduate of Hastings High School, class of 1962, and furthered his education by earning a Certificate of Completion of Apprenticeship as a Tool and Die Maker from the State of MN on August 3, 1971. Leo dedicated many years of service as a Tool and Die Maker, retiring from Smead Manufacturing. He proudly served in the U.S. Army, honoring his country as a veteran.
Leo was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Lois Marie (Pinke) Ladwig; and his nieces.
He is survived by his nieces, Cheri Ladwig and Laurie Brommenshenkel.
Leo enjoyed photography, ham radio, and music. He cherished time spent working in his machine shop and loved traveling, with Germany being a favorite destination, where he enjoyed speaking the language fluently.
A funeral service to celebrate Leo’s life was held at 2 p.m. on Oct. 22, 2024, at Hope Lutheran Church LCMS, located at 16898 Michael Ave, Hastings, MN 55033. There was a visitation one hour prior to the service. Following the service, burial took place at Lakeside Cemetery, 920 Nininger Rd, Hastings, MN.Leo was a big guy with a gentle soul.
For guestbook and further information, please visit www.hastingsmnfuneral.com.
Arrangements are under the care of Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel.
