Lowell James "Jim" Hinz

Celebration of Life for Lowell James “Jim” Hinz

Corn, OK — The community will come together to honor the remarkable life of Lowell James “Jim” Hinz, a cherished Western Oklahoma farmer-rancher and esteemed auctioneer, on Friday, September 6, 2024, at 2:00 PM. The service will be held at Corn Mennonite Brethren Church and will be led by Pastor Tim Sandy. Following the service, Jim will be laid to rest in Bergthal Cemetery in Corn, OK, under the compassionate care of Lee Hometown Funeral Home. Family will greet friends who wish to come by, Thursday, in the Lee Hometown Chapel from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.

Jim, born on July 27, 1931, in Corn, OK, to Ferd and Sarah (Ediger) Hinz, passed away unexpectedly at his home on September 3, 2024. His early years were marked by the loss of both parents, leading him to live with his older siblings in Liberal, Kansas, and Turpin, OK. He returned to Corn, completed his education at Corn High School in 1949, and embarked on a lifelong journey in farming and ranching. On September 5, 1954, he married Joyce Darlene Vogt, and together they made a significant impact on Western Oklahoma.

Jim's passion for auctioneering led him to Iowa in 1957, where he trained to become an auctioneer. Upon his return to Corn, he established a renowned auction business that spanned Western Oklahoma, parts of Texas, and Kansas. Known for his energetic spirit, Jim conducted up to eight auctions a week during the oil boom and was a familiar face at local events until just days before his passing. His legacy includes not only his business acumen but also his dedication to community service, including hosting the Fourth of July Celebration in Corn with his son Jimmie Dale and grandson Brandon.

A beloved figure, Jim was known for his warmth, generosity, and the welcoming atmosphere he created at his auctions with coffee and donuts. His contributions to charity fundraisers and school functions were numerous, reflecting his deep commitment to his community.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Joyce, three brothers—Elmer, Alfred, and Robert “Bob” and two sisters, Verna Flaming and Ruth Fransen. He also mourned the loss of his great-granddaughter, Madeline Zahorsky.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication, survived by his son Jimmie Dale Hinz and wife Nancy of Corn, OK; daughters Debra Gaye Zahorsky and husband Steve of Weatherford, OK, and Terri Weichel and Tom of Lucas, TX; and sister Norma Vogt of Corn, OK. Jim's legacy continues through his eight grandchildren—Kyle Zahorsky (Meredith), Taylor Forester (David), Brandon Hinz (Lexi), Courtney Bryan (Dewrell), John Weichel (Maddie), Emily Logan (Schuyler), Lizzie Weichel, and Annie Weichel—and thirteen great-grandchildren: Max, Molly, Miles, Ellie, Ben, Caroline, Ozzy, Joe, Jett, Gavin, Rylee, Joyce, and Frances, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Bergthal Cemetery Association Perpetual Care at the Clinton Bank of the West or to the Corn Volunteer Fire Department.

Jim Hinz's life was a testament to hard work, community spirit, and boundless generosity. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

If you wish donations my be made to one of the following,  Bergthal Cemetery, Corn OK; Bank of the West, Clinton, OK; or The Corn Volunteer Fire Department, Corn, OK.,