Peter K. Hinski on January 10, 2015 of Cherry Hill age 67 - Ten years ago, anyone driving along Park Drive in Cherry Hill for their daily commute would receive a friendly wave from Erlton Bicycle Shop owner, Peter Hinski, as he rode to and from work. On Saturday, January 10, 2015, Peter, who you likely knew as “Pete,” left this life for the next as peacefully as he lived it. Whether he was riding his bike, cruising on a boat, swimming in the waves at Ocean City, or driving in his beloved 1971 Camaro, Pete was happiest when he was near his wife and co-owner of the shop, Christine (nee Small), and his daughter Amanda, both of whom continue to carry out his legacy today. He is pre-deceased by his parents, Francis and Eugene Hinski. His brother Gene (Joan); sister Gracanne (Tom), who he lovingly called “Itch;” and brother Paul (Sally) still cherish the mischievous memories of their youth together in Haddonfield. Pete’s 8 nieces and nephews, along with his 11 great nieces and nephews, still giggle with memories of his famous “one liners.” After serving in the Navy from 1968-1971, Pete was honorably discharged and awarded a National Defense Service Medal. In 1970, he was diagnosed with a particularly severe case of type 1 diabetes and told he would not live to see 40. Challenge accepted, he soon attended Glassboro State College, now Rowan University, where he met the love of his life, Christine. The two went into business together in 1977, taking ownership of the Erlton Bicycle Shop on Route 70 in Cherry Hill, one of the longest operating small businesses in his community today. In 1985 his daughter Amanda was born, whom he immediately made the center of his life, never missing a dance recital of hers or the opportunity to take her out on a bike ride through the woods. In 2007, Pete had already proven his doctors wrong by living not only past 40 but now past 60, yet Pete wouldn’t stop there. In 2010, he was selected for an experimental research study through the University of Pennsylvania Hospital. After two islet cell transplants, Pete was among but a handful of the first men and women in the U.S. with type 1 diabetes to be freed of taking synthetic insulin and managing unpredictable blood-glucose levels, thanks to this non-invasive, new treatment. Pete’s contribution to the future of children and adults with this life-threatening disease will hopefully save countless lives someday. In 2013 Peter moved to Arden Courts Assisted Living Facility in Cherry Hill, and his family would be remiss not to acknowledge the loving care the staff provided him, as well as that of Heartland Hospice during his final days. A viewing will be held to celebrate Pete’s adventurous, impactful, and hardworking life on Thursday, January, 15 from 6-9pm at the Hinski-Tomlinson Funeral Home, 81 Haddon Ave., Haddonfield. Friends and family may also attend a viewing from 9-10:30am, Friday Morning. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11am at Christ the King Catholic Church, Haddonfield. The family has requested, in lieu of flowers, small trees/shrubs planted in his memory or a donation to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF.org). And of course, don’t forget to offer a friendly wave when you drive by a cyclist on the road. Happy trails, Pete! Condolences may be offered at kwtomlinson.sr@gmail.com