Wayne A. Hinkle

Wayne Hinkle, 75, of Denver, Colorado, passed away on November 5, 2026.

Born on March 17, 1951, in Nebraska, Wayne moved to Colorado as a child with his parents, Walter and Virginia Hinkle, and his siblings. He attended Denver public schools and graduated from Lincoln High School in 1969.

Following high school, Wayne proudly served his country in the United States Navy from May 7, 1970, to March 2, 1974, during the Vietnam War era. He worked as an airplane director aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ranger (CVA-61).

After his honorable discharge, Wayne returned to Denver to carry on a proud family legacy. Joining his grandfather, father, and two brothers, he built a long career with the BNSF Railway, serving as a lead train engineer until his retirement in 1998. One of his favorite routes was the "Beer Run" to Cheyenne, Wyoming.

Wayne married Charlene Margeson (Willis), and together they welcomed his only child, Sharmayne Hinkle, on November 5, 1984. Though they later divorced in 1988, Wayne remained deeply devoted to his daughter. He also lived alongside his parents and siblings Judy, Pete, And Skip at 5050 Bingham Place in Denver, Co.

Outside of his work on the railroad, Wayne was a man of many passions and strong convictions. He loved music and dancing, had a deep affection for animals, and was a dedicated car enthusiast. He was also a proud lifelong Democrat who regularly donated to the Democratic Party, and above all, a die-hard Denver Broncos fan.

Wayne is survived by his beloved daughter, Sharmayne Hinkle. He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Virginia Hinkle, and his brothers, Pete and Skip.

In honor of his lifelong love for the rails, some of Wayne’s ashes will be spread along the train tracks on the route to Cheyenne, Wyoming, joining those of his parents and brothers. He will have a service and plaque at Ft. Logan honoring his service and war time.