John Thomas "J.T." Hines, Jr., 67, passed away July 8, 2015 at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. The son of John (Sr.) and Jan Hines, he was born January 9, 1948 in Omaha, Nebraska. He was the owner of J. T. Hines Plumbing, Inc. and most recently was a home improvement contractor.

He graduated as a member of the Class of ''66 of Central High School in Sioux City, Iowa, where he was also a four year member of a winning football team. Following high school he attended the United States Naval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland. Besides having a passion for acting and writing, he was a diehard Nebraska Cornhuskers football fan. He was master baker, winning several Kansas State Fair blue ribbons for his specialties, bread and cinnamon rolls. He loved to spend time in his yard with his trusty companion, Tucker. He had a deep love for his family and loved to give them creative and fun nicknames. He enjoyed a good cup of coffee or breakfast and conversation with his many friends almost daily.

On November 23, 1981 he married Karon Kochaver in Hutchinson, Kansas. She survives of the home. Other survivors include a son, Zachary Hines of Hutchinson; 2 daughters, Susannah Reed (Nathan) of Lawrence, Ks; Natalie Hines (companion, David Arnold) of Olathe, Ks; 2 sisters, Susan Escolas (David) of Wyoming, Judy Ahrends (Kim) of Clarion, Iowa; 3 grandchildren, Emma Bayless, Harrison Reed, and Scarlett Reed as well as several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, and a brother, Jeff Hines.

Per his request cremation has taken place. Per his wishes, an informal celebration of life was held on Saturday, July 11, 2015 at his home. In lieu of flowers the family has established a memorial fund and gifts may be made to the
John Thomas "J.T." Hines, Jr. Family Memorial Fund and may be left in care of the funeral home.

Old Mission - Heritage Funeral Home, Hutchinson, Kansas is in charge of arrangements.