A true legend of dirt track racing in the Upper Midwest and the 2021 Hibbing Speedway Hall of Famer, Jeff Hinkemeyer, has sadly passed away.
As per Jeff’s Facebook handle, he was born in Saint Cloud, Minnesota.
Jeff Hinkemeyer went to Apollo High School in Minnesota and later graduated from St. Cloud Technical & Community College.
Before his death, he served at Glen’s Precision Auto & Truck.
He was a veteran American dirt track racing driver best known for his success at Viking Speedway.
Jeff started racing in 1976 at age 17 while still in high school, driving a Camaro-bodied late model with an Ed Sanger chassis.
In 1984, he joined forces with car owners Joe and Audrey Salner, forming a dominant late model team that produced over 200 feature wins and 21 track championships during their partnership.
He captured eight Viking Speedway late model championships and claimed titles at numerous tracks across the Upper Midwest and Canada, competing at more than 40 venues in 10 U.S states and 10 Canadian provinces.
A career highlight came in 1989 when he won the NASCAR Great Northern Region championship, and in 1990, he dominated Viking Speedway with 18 feature wins in a single season.
Racing Community Is Mourning The Tragic Death Of Jeff G Hinkemeyer
The sources confirmed that a veteran American dirt track racing driver passed away in April 2026. However, the cause of death has not been revealed.
Robyn Snyder took to his official Facebook handle to announce the tragic news.
Jeffrey G Hinkemeyer…a true legend of dirt track racing in the Upper Midwest. A champion on the track, but even more importantly, a kind and genuine man off of it.
Robyn Snyder
I was fortunate to know Jeff over the years from the racing days to later through the Viking Speedway Hall of Fame. I’m grateful to have called him a friend.
These photos of Jeff behind the wheel of Lightning will always make me smile… especially seeing his grandson looking up at him with such admiration. That says a lot about the kind of legacy he leaves behind.
He will be deeply missed, but never forgotten. My thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him.
Tristin Andreasen took to the comment section and wrote,
He truly was one of the best, on and off the track. Kind and genuine describes him best. The Peterson’s thought highly of Jeffrey G Hinkemeyer and always will
Tristin Andreasen
Andrea George, a graduate of Jefferson Senior High School, also mourned the tragic loss.
Jeff was the most kind and caring person. It didn’t matter if he knew you, or you were just a fan. He made time for EVERYONE! He always had a smile! Such a loss for everyone who knew him. Prayers to Kathy, his family, and everyone who loved him.
Andrea George
Georgia Peterson of Alexandria, Minnesota, wrote,
We are so very saddened to hear about Jeff. We send our sincere condolences to Kathy and the Family. Gods speed Jeff you made it to the finish line!!
Georgia Peterson
Dawn Aho, a graduate of Chisholm Senior High School, wrote,
Sad news. He was one of my all time favorite drivers growing up
Dawn Aho
Other close ones and relatives have also offered their heartfelt condolences and sent prayers to Jeff’s family to stay strong in this difficult time.
The funeral service schedule will be revealed soon.
Rest in Peace, Jeff Hinkemeyer.
