The Joshua HInderks Memorial Scholarship was established in 2021 by his family and friends in memory of Joshua.  It provides scholarships to those students going into the medical field in the area of chiropractic medicine, massage therapy, physical therapy or sports medicine.

Josh passed away on April 27, 2021 as a result of a tragic accident near Phoenix, AZ.  Josh was a very caring, compassionate and kind young man.  He had a passion for life and would embrace anyone he came in contact with.  He would light up a room upon entering it and his infectious smile would spread joy to all.  Friendships came easy for Josh and all of his friends were considered his BEST friends.  Josh leaves behind a lasting legacy for all to treasure.

After graduating from Aberdeen Central High School in 2002, Josh attended Northern State University for one year.  The following year, he decided to spread his wings and moved to Omaha, NE where he pursued an interest in photography.  After a few years in Omaha, he moved to Scottsdale, AZ in 2010.  In 2013, Josh enrolled in the Cortiva Institute of Massage Therapy in Scottsdale whereby he graduated in the fall of 2014.  He was employed as a massage therapist at Ryken Chiropractic Clinic in Chandler, AZ at the time of his passing.  As one of his 100-year-old clients stated, “he was the best massage therapist she had ever had” and she had plenty!  She would wait until he was freed up from his other clients because Josh’s hands had that intuitive sense and strength to get the job done.

Josh’s family is honored to continue his legacy by establishing this scholarship in his memory.  And along with his choice to be a life donor, his legacy will live on in the hearts of many.  “It is our wish that the recipients of this scholarship use their hands in the same kind, caring and compassionate ways as Josh did through his art, photography and his work as a massage therapist! Then we will truly know that his legacy is being carried on!” said his mother, Kathy Hinderks.

As of June 30, 2024, the Joshua Hinderks Memorial Scholarship balance is over $4,938

Click here to apply for the Joshua Hinderks Memorial Scholarship.

For more information about or to contribute to this fund, contact Gretchen.Sharp@k12.sd.us.