Stephen Lewis Dingledine

Muncie - Stephen Lewis Dingledine, 80, of Muncie, Indiana, passed away on August 14, 2025, at Ball Memorial Hospital, surrounded by family.

Steve was born on March 25, 1945, on an Army base in Amarillo, Texas, to Lewis (Bud) and Esther Dingledine. He married his beloved wife, Ladonna (Cole) Dingledine, and together they shared more than 58 years of love, music, and family.

A lifelong educator and musician, Steve earned both his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Music from Ball State University. His teaching career spanned 37 years in Delaware County, where he directed bands and orchestras at Albany, Delta, and Muncie Central High Schools, as well as Storer and Northside Middle Schools. He also taught oboe at Anderson University and Taylor University, sharing his artistry and passion with countless students.

Steve's love of music extended far beyond the classroom. He was a member of the Muncie Symphony Orchestra for 38 years, the Anderson Symphony for 25 years, and also performed with the Marion Symphony, Richmond Symphony, and Kokomo Park Band. As a member of the Dingledine Trio, he performed at weddings, churches, and recitals at Ball State University, and even recorded at Pinebrook Studios, owned by the Gaither family. For more than 50 years, he served as a judge for the Indiana State School Music Association (ISSMA), impacting generations of young musicians.

His contributions were recognized with numerous honors, including the Sagamore of the Wabash Award, which he and Ladonna received for their outstanding service and influence in the community. In his honor, Muncie Symphony Orchestra annually presents the Steve Dingledine Senior Division Award in its Young Artist Competition.

Steve was an active member of Phi Beta Mu, an international honorary fraternity of band directors, and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, an honorary music fraternity. He was also a proud Friend of the Arts for Sigma Alpha Iota, an organization devoted to furthering the development of music in America and throughout the world.

A devoted member of High Street United Methodist Church for over 50 years, Steve sang in the choir and played in the handbell choir. He and Ladonna shared a love of travel, exploring the United States and Europe together.

Above all, Steve cherished his family. He is survived by his wife, Ladonna; his children, Kenneth Dingledine (TC Chou) of Brooklyn, NY, Cindy Neal of Frankfort, IN, and Lora Dingledine (Michelle Oyler) of Indianapolis, IN; his grandchildren, Tatum, Tynlie, and Karson Neal; and his sister, Vanessa Castagna (Doug Collins) of Naples, FL.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 19, from 4:00–7:00 p.m. at The Meeks Mortuary and Crematory, Washington Street Chapel. An additional calling hour will be held Wednesday, August 20, from 10:00–11:00 a.m. at High Street United Methodist Church, prior to the memorial service. The memorial service will follow at 11:00 a.m. at High Street United Methodist Church. Burial will take place in Beech Grove Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the Ministry of Music at High Street United Methodist Church (https://highstreetumc.breezechms.com/give/online), a cause close to Steve's heart.

Steve's life was one of music, teaching, and love. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.meeksmortuary.com.