Myrtle Dynes

DICKINSON - Myrtle K. Dynes, 80, Dickinson, died March 19, 2010, at St. Joseph's Hospital and Health Center, Dickinson. A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. MST Saturday, March 27, at First Congregational/United Church of Christ, Dickinson, with the Rev. Janel Kolar officiating.

Visitation will be held from noon to 8 p.m. MST Friday at Ladbury Funeral Service with a prayer service at 7 p.m. MST. Visitation will continue from 9 to 11 a.m. MST at the church on Saturday.

Myrtle was born Oct. 13, 1929, to Carl and Anna (Erickson) Erikson on the family homestead near Arnegard. Myrtle's love of history, reading, language and music began early and never dimmed. She graduated from Watford City High School in 1948 and then enrolled in Dickinson State Teachers College.

At Dickinson State, Myrtle met George Dynes when they were cast opposite each other in the campus production of "Little Women." Myrtle graduated in 1953 and over the years, taught in Scranton, Grand Forks and Versippi, as well as Fisher, Minn. Myrtle and George married on May 30, 1953, and settled in Dickinson.

Even without a classroom, Myrtle found teaching moments everywhere. She and George sparked an interest for adventure and travel for their family through their many camping trips in their Starcraft camper. She volunteered at her children's schools and served as a Campfire Girls group leader. Myrtle loved flowers and always enjoyed her garden.

Myrtle was a talented golfer and a member of the Dickinson Country Club from 1963 to 1999. She was active in the Alpha Sigma Alpha sorority and the first President of Chapter AQ of PEO, an organization she belonged to for over 50 years. She served in numerous capacities at the First Congregational Church including teacher, choir member, youth leader, camp counselor and moderator. She belonged to St. Cecelia's music club and served on the Community Concert Board of Directors. Myrtle was an active member of the Friends of the Library. Since 1988, she was a member of Round Table Study Club. Myrtle was a tireless supporter of Dickinson State University.

Myrtle spent many happy winters with George in their Tucson home, traveling as much as she could until health problems kept her closer to Dickinson. Despite her recent physical limitations, Myrtle's determination and perseverance continued to inspire those who knew her. Myrtle was well loved and will be deeply missed.

Myrtle is survived by her husband, George; five children, LuAnne (Rob) Engh, Laurel, Mont., John Dynes, Casper, Wyo., Julie (Bob) King, St. Paul, Minn., Jane Dynes and David (Wendy) Dynes, Fargo; her grandchildren, Jennifer (Kevin), Allison (Kevin), Michael, Michelle, Lindsey, Kristine, Sarah (Brenden), Jessie, Rob, Keaton and Dawson; and her great-grandchildren, Cole and Ally Jane. Myrtle is also survived by two brothers, Phillip (Nita) Erikson, Grand Junction Colo., and C. John (Violet) Anderson, Watford City; as well many nieces and nephews.

Myrtle is preceded in death by her parents, two sisters and four of her brothers.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorials to Dickinson State University Foundation or to the donor's choice. (http://www.ladburyfuneralservice.com/">www.ladburyfuneralservice.com)