Elizabeth Hinkel {nee Gstalter}100 years old, passed away peacefully on April 26, 2026 in her Sarasota home.  Elizabeth was born January 24, 1926 in Crvenka, Yugoslavia, now Serbia.  She emigrated to the United States in 1950, and settled in Chicago, IL.  Her future husband, Peter, also from Crvenka, joined her in 1951, marrying that same year.

In Chicago, Elizabeth was a piece worker for Midwest Coil and Transformer Company, besides raising two sons with Peter.  After moving to Wisconsin, she helped run a resort and grocery store / gas station in Conover and later moved boats at their marina in Land O' Lakes.  Very adventurous; she and her husband built 9 homes in Wisconsin, Michigan, Florida, and North Carolina.  She could nail drywall and tile a roof with the best of them!  

Elizabeth was predeceased by her husband, Peter, and dear son, Peter John (Sally).  She is survived by her devoted and caring son, Carl Hinkel of Sarasota, and four granddaughters.  Loving "Oma" of Mandi (Matt) Sangiuolo of Palm Beach, FL and Brooke (Alex) of Stuart, FL; Jennifer Hinkel of Hancock, MI and Michelle (Bruce) Aho of Houghton, MI.  Proud great grandmother of Kylli and Maisie Aho, Dominic and Camden Sangiuolo.  In addition, she leaves behind nieces, nephews, and cousins in Chicago, IL and Germany.

For many years, Elizabeth would divide her time between her Sarasota home and lake house in Glenville, North Carolina.  A nature girl, she enjoyed the stunning views of the lake and the Blue Ridge mountains, making happy memories there.  She always had a loyal dog by her side, too.

Elizabeth was a friend to many and will be greatly missed.