Elwyn N. Rinker, Jr.

Elwyn Norris Rinker, Jr. (known as “Bob” to family and friends) died on the morning of July 5, 2025, at English Meadows in Fishersville.

He was born on September 8, 1934, to the late Elwyn Norris, Sr. and Irene Jeanette Kemper Rinker.

Bob grew up on a small family farm in Stevensburg, Virginia. He helped with farm work and raised a calf to sell. His family’s social life centered around their church. Bob and his twin sister Eleanor often sang duets there.

Born with vision impairment, Bob never allowed that to define or limit him. In his teens, Bob attended the Virginia School for the Deaf and the Blind (VSDB) in Staunton. He had a beautiful baritone voice and sang in a quartet and choral groups. He played drums in a small band that often played for off-campus events.

After graduating from VSDB in 1957, Bob trained at the Piano Hospital and Training Center in Vancouver, WA, then returned to VSDB to teach piano tuning and technology to students in the Blind Department. He enjoyed teaching, respected others, and always set an example of good manners for his students. He went on to start his own piano tuning and repair business in Staunton.

Bob was a loving husband and father. He was very active in the First Baptist Church choir. He filled his leisure time listening to books, sports, music, and news broadcasts. Bob lived a life of LOVE. He was not shy about telling people, “I love you” and set an example for others to do the same.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy Zimmerman Rinker; his son, David C. Rinker; and his sister, Eleanor L. Rinker.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister, Helen Kemper Rinker.

A memorial service at First Baptist Church in Staunton will be announced at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to The Talking Book Center (1 Churchville Avenue, Staunton, VA 24401) or the charity of your choice.