GARY DEAN DINGER was born November 16, 1943 in Minot, North Dakota, the son of the late Frank Dinger and Myra Bernice (Graff) Dinger. He was raised and received his early education in Mohall, North Dakota, until the 8th grade in 1956 when he moved with his family to Oregon, settling in the Vernonia community. Gary was a graduate of the Vernonia High School Class of 1961. Upon his high school graduation he attended Business College for one year.
He was a Veteran of the Vietnam Era, having joined the United States Navy on March 25, 1963 in Vernonia, Oregon. Gary served for four years, until receiving his discharge on April 20, 1967 prior to serving in the United States Navy Reserves. He received his discharge from the Reserves on March 24, 1969.
Gary had worked for the United States Postal Service at the Vernonia Post Office for thirty-five years. He had served in several capacities including a clerk, retiring in 1999.
Among his special interests he was a golfer, bowler, enjoyed playing pool, an avid reader and competed in cribbage tournaments.
Gary was preceded in death by his parents, his niece, Lisa Fletcher and his nephew, Robbie Baska.
Survivors include his five sisters and brothers-in-law, Delores Fowler, of Vernonia, Oregon; Pat and Chuck Simonson, of Prineville, Oregon; Fran and Dan Fletcher, of Vernonia, Oregon, Carol and Ted Bodenhamer, of Rainier, Oregon, and Judy and Bruce White, of Clarksville, Tennessee; and his two brothers and sisters-in-law, Gerald and Alison Dinger; and Gene and Terri Baska, all of Vernonia, Oregon.
Also surviving are many nieces and nephews.
The family suggests that remembrances may be contributions to the Vernonia Volunteer Ambulance Fund, 919 Bridge Street, in his memory.