Obituaries

Barbara Ann (Maleport) Hinton, age 95, of Sugar Island, Michigan, died on September 15, 2026, at the Ball Hospice House in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. She was born on August 26, 1931, in Sault Ste. Marie, to Emery and Marie (Niskanen) Maleport.

Barbara grew up on Sugar Island and graduated from Sault High School in 1947. She attended Alpena College, where she earned her teaching degree. She went on to teach in a one-room schoolhouse, beginning a life of service and dedication to others.

Barbara married Theodore Gravelle and moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan area, where they raised their five children. In 1977, she married Robert Hinton, and together they made their home in Rockford, Michigan. In the 1980s, they returned to Sugar Island, where Barbara remained connected to the community she had loved since childhood.

Barbara was known for her independent spirit, especially after being widowed. She loved being outdoors and was never afraid of hard work. One of her favorite pastimes was driving her Kubota tractor, particularly when snowplowing her long driveway. Barbara was known for being a storyteller of Sugar Island history and family history.

Barbara was a member of the Sugar Island Historical Society and took pride in preserving the history and traditions of her beloved island.

Throughout her earlier years, Barbara enjoyed gardening and canning, skills that reflected her resourcefulness and love of home. Over the years, she also found joy in sewing, knitting, quilting, and crocheting. Her hands were rarely still, and through these crafts she created many things that brought warmth and comfort to her family and friends.

Barbara’s independent nature, love of Sugar Island, dedication to her family, and many talents will be remembered and cherished by all who knew her.

Barbara is survived by her children, R. John Gravelle of Denton, Texas, Linda Amshey of Belmont, Michigan, Mike (Ruth) Gravelle of Greenville, Michigan, Vickie (Ed) Fransen of Rockford, Michigan; stepchildren, Dan (Sue) Hinton of Curtis, Michigan, Alice (Russ) Barkow of Casnovia, Michigan; daughter-in-law, Romana Hinton of Lakewood, Washington; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Hinton; daughter, Janice Abke; stepson, Jim Hinton; parents, Emery and Marie; and siblings, Beth Melancon, Robert Maleport and Allen Maleport.

Per Barbara’s wishes there will be no services.

Condolences may be given to the family at www.familylifefh.com.