Carol Hinrichs

Carol L. Hinrichs, 72, of Waukon passed away peacefully at Thornton Manor in Lansing Wednesday, October 21, 2026, surrounded by family. A celebration of life and graveside services will be held at a later date. Martin-Grau Funeral Home in Waukon is handling arrangements.

Carol Lee Hinrichs was born November 12, 1953, in Waukon, the daughter of Gayhard James and Mary Elizabeth (Ferring) Reppe. She grew up on the family farm located in the Lycurgus area, rural Lansing. She attended Waukon High School. After earning her CNA (Certified Nurse Aide) certification, Carol moved to Waterloo, where she lived most of her adult life.

December 28, 1993, Carol married Donald Dean Hinrichs at St. John’s Catholic Church in Waterloo. While they did not have children of their own, Carol and Don were blessed with two great dogs, Luke and Mitsy.

As a CNA, she worked at Black Hawk County Care Facility, and was also a home health aide at Allen Hospital, and nurse aide for Covenant Hospital. About ten years ago, Carol moved back to Waukon and worked for Mosaic. After a year, she became an independent contractor caring for Nicky, who became very special to Carol.

She enjoyed playing cards and trips to the boat in Marquette. Carol grew a little garden with tomatoes, green peppers, and a variety of flowers. She loved shopping with her sisters. She also loved visiting her brothers at the farm and spending time with the dogs. Carol especially loved her nieces and nephews, and always cherished going to the family farm for dinners, holidays, and reunions. Carol’s special dish was cherry cheesecake.

Carol is survived by her nine siblings: Joan (Jim) Miller of Port Angeles, WA, Sandra (Jerry) Ward and Gail (Wayne) Verthein, both of Waukon, Patty (Mark) Andreas of Suwanee, GA, Jerry (Becky) Reppe of Lansing, Julie (Dan) Fjelstad of Ferryville, WI, and Ralph and Dennis Reppe and Tammy (Andy) Leppert, all of Lansing; 21 nieces and nephews; 30 great-nieces and great-nephews; and nine great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and her husband Don in 2022.

Online condolences may be left at www.martinfunerals.com.