Remembering Jeff
On April 26, 2026, Jeff Hinkemeyer crossed the finish line of life at age 67, after a strong and courageous battle against lung cancer. Born February 17, 1959, in St. Cloud, MN, to Glen & JoAnn (Bauerly) Hinkemeyer, he grew up in St. Cloud, graduated from Apollo High School in 1977, and earned his Automotive degree from St. Cloud Technical in 1994.
Jeff began working alongside his parents at Glen’s Repair at just five years old. In 1996, he and his wife, Kathy, purchased the business and renamed it Glen’s Precision Auto, where Jeff became well known for his exceptional skill in fabrication and his gift for solving the most complex automotive diagnostic challenges.
He always said the best part of racing was the lifelong friendships he made along the way.
He married Kathleen (Ressemann) Hinkemeyer on February 10, 1979. They met at age 13 and remained best friends throughout their 47 years of marriage, raising three children together: Bradley, Brent, and Vicki.
Jeff’s passion for racing began early. He started racing Late Models in 1976 at age 17, earning the nickname “Kid Dirt” behind the wheel of car #13, and later #4F with the Salner family. His career was remarkable — over 200 feature wins, 21 track championships, and races across more than 40 tracks in 10 states and 2 Canadian provinces. He was inducted into the Viking, Superior/Gondik, Hibbing, and Proctor Speedway Halls of Fame.
Outside of racing, Jeff treasured making memories with his grandchildren, Finley & Murray, who were his greatest pride and joy. He also loved snowmobiling, watching NASCAR, scuba diving, water skiing, boating, camping, and traveling.
I’ve met so many fabulous people. I’ve got more memories than I can count. I had more fun than 10 guys should. — Jeff Hinkemeyer, to RaceChaser, 2020
