David Dinger

Due to weather conditions, Dave's prayer service is cancelled for this evening

His service on Wednesday, November 26 at 10:00 a.m. is still scheduled to be held

David Dinger, 74, of Hecla, SD, passed away on November 23, 2025, at Wheatcrest Hills Healthcare Center surrounded by the love of his family.

Dave was born February 20, 1951, to Harley "Fritz" and Kathryn "Kate" (Lewis) Dinger in Britton, SD. He was raised in Hecla, where he formed the roots that would anchor him throughout his life. He attended school in Hecla, graduating in 1969, and went on to SDSU in Brookings, where he earned a degree in Agriculture - a field that became both his livelihood and lifelong passion.

Dave was a devoted family man above all. On December 11, 1976, he married the love of his life, Carolyn Wolff at St. John's Lutheran Church in Hecla. They shared nearly 49 years of marriage. Together they raised a family, and he was immensely proud of their children Derrick (Kristen) Dinger of West Fargo, ND, Levi (Jes) Dinger of Houghton, SD, Kayle (Emmy) Dinger of Houghton, SD and DaRae (K.C.) Jones of Britton, SD.

He was a cherished grandfather to Michael (Ashlyn Sperry) Powers-Dinger, Hudson, Baylor and Breckyn Dinger, Camden and Talon Dinger, and Lenyx, Kandrick, and Merit Jones. His grandchildren were his greatest joy.

A hardworking and generous man, Dave devoted his days to farming, community, and his family. He loved being out on the water fishing, especially his trips to Canada with his sons or siblings. He spent countless hours cheering on the Minnesota Twins and enjoyed spending winters in Fort Myers, FL where he could take in Spring Training games. He also enjoyed spending time with his Florida friends that turned to family and playing pickle ball. Dave was always up for a game of Pepper and always seemed to have the luck on his side. He spent many hours of his life in the bleachers watching his children in their activities, and more recently his grandchildren. He was also deeply committed to his community, serving on many boards including the Railroad, Pork Producers, Hecla and Britton-Hecla School, and the Lansing Township. Dave won the South Dakota Outstanding Young Farmer and the Master Pork Producer awards. His leadership reflected his belief in giving back and supporting the place he called home. He loved traveling and was able to see many different places, but there was no place better than spring and fall at home on their farm.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Kate and Fritz Dinger, whom he remembered with love.

He is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, siblings Eugene (Twyla) Dinger, Cathy (Tyler) Telin, Dennis Dinger, Carmen (David) Siefkes, Paula (Ronnie) Maddocks, sisters-in-law Jerrolyn (Rod) Lang, Brinda (Rich) Elsen, Lisa (Rick) Johnson and many nieces and nephews.

He will be remembered for his steady presence, his willingness to help anyone in need, and the legacy of hard work, kindness, and community he leaves behind.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 25, 2025 from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. followed by a prayer service at 7:00 p.m. at St. John's Lutheran Church in Hecla. Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, November 26, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at St. John's Lutheran Church followed by burial at Hecla City Cemetery near Hecla. Dave's service will be live streamed below.