By Deborah Larsen
Donald McWilliams Hinkley
Donald McWilliams Hinkley was born in Benton Harbor, Michigan, on August 4, 1908, the son of Myron and Ruby McWilliams Hinkley. Donald grew up in Berrien Springs, Michigan, and attended Olivet College. He continued his education at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. Upon earning his DDS degree in 1930, he married and came to Rochester, Michigan, to establish his dental practice. His offices were located at 307 Main, above Main Feed & Seed in the Curtis building.
In September 1942, Donald entered the U.S. Army Dental Corps. He was stationed at Camp Stewart, Georgia, before going overseas to the European Theater in September 1944. He served in England and Belgium, and was awarded a Bronze Star for meritorious service with the 130th General Hospital. While in Europe, Donald underwent surgery and was medically evacuated to the U.S. in early 1945. He died after a seven-month stay at Percy Jones Hospital in Battle Creek.
Dr. Donald McWilliams Hinkley died at age 37 on December 10, 1945, and was laid to rest at White Chapel Memorial Cemetery.