Richard Dinger

Tuesday, August 16, 2022 8:05 pm

Richard Dinger died July 15, 2022 at the age of 103.

Never one to complain about aging, he never wanted to be defined by his age. He grew old “on the vine”, with grace, dignity, and beauty.Born June 25, 1919 in Austin, Minn., Richard was the son of Irvin and Helga Dinger. His lifetime was spent in Decorah, and he enjoyed everything the community had to offer.

He graduated from Decorah High School in 1937 where he was on the basketball and football teams.Richard attended Luther College on a scholarship provided by the Des Moines Register newspaper, in recognition of his exemplary time as a paperboy.Richard Dinger served in WWII, flying over 30 successful missions.

Richard and his wife Mildred were so relieved and thankful that he safely returned home to Decorah. They created a life of looking forward, and making choices framed by family, community, the church, love of nature and a simple lifestyle.Richard enjoyed his life-long career as employee and manager at Baker Construction Lumber Company. He was the buyer, draftsman and estimator on buildings and homes all around Decorah.

While Richard’s profession was devoted to the lumberyard, it was his role as a father and later as “Grampy” that brought him the status of a hero in our family. He was always present for us: steady, exhibiting a calm and consistent presence, and a role model especially for his grandchildren. His spirit lives on in each of them.

Richard’s survivors include his daughter, Karen Dinger Oiseth; son, John (Sunnye) Dinger; five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Richard was a willful survivor of war; and living a model life. He will be missed as a presence in the lives of those who knew and loved him, and we are comforted knowing that he is Home.

A memorial service will be held at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, in Decorah on Wednesday Aug.24, at 1 p.m. A coffee will follow the service

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