Donald Dingman

Donald Henry Dingman, born September 2, 1929 in Fort Ripley, MN, died peacefully in North Oaks, MN on March 6, 2016. Born to Herbert and Verna Dingman, he was the fourth of twelve children. His family was filled with loyalty, love and laughter. Don graduated from Pillager High School in 1947. As a veteran, he served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. After his discharge, Don and his brother Boyd owned and operated a jewelry store in Pipestone, MN for a time and then he went to work for Honeywell, where he was a long time employee and eventually retired after many years of dedicated service. On June 30, 1962 Don married Jean Torgeson. Soon after, they moved to Forest Lake where they raised their three children, Barbara, Scott and John. Don and Jean were members of Faith Lutheran Church since 1963. Camping and the outdoors were a big part of Don's life, and the family took many memorable trips when the children were younger. Don and Jean continued to travel once retired, as they liked to explore new places. They visited approximately 44 states and Canada during their trips. Don also like to read westerns and square danced for many years with Jean in the Forest Lake Jolly Promenaders. Don was often fond of one liners, and one of his favorites was "Success!" when something went right. Don was never shy of working and wasn't one to stay still for too long. After his retirement from Honeywell, he worked a number of part time jobs. Two of those jobs stand out: one was driving the elderly for Washington County and the other was cutting, splitting and selling firewood. Eventually he cut so much wood he was known as the "Woodman" and even had his picture in the Forest Lake Times. Don is preceded in death by his wife, Jean, his parents, his sisters, Ila (Barton) Olson and Roberta Johnson, his brothers, Boyd (Charlotte), Craig, Rick and Bud. He is survived by his children Barbara Dahl (Avery), Scott (Cheryl), and John (Jackie) and four grandchildren, Adam, Emily, Cal and Kami. Also surviving are his sister, Sherry (Frank) Mudgett, and brothers, Guy (Wanda), Noel (Sandy), Glen (Marilyn), Forrest (Pearl) and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Don was a kind, honest, hard working and selfless man. A good father and friend to many, Don, you will live in our hearts forever and be greatly missed. A Celebration of Life will be held at Mattson's Funeral Home, 343 North Shore Drive, Forest Lake, MN. Visitation starts at 1pm with a service at 3pm and internment at 4pm at the Scandinavian Cemetery in Forest Lake. In lieu of flowers, memorials should be made to the Disabled American Veterans and the Alzheimer's Association. Condolences can be sent to Mattson Funeral Home and online at www.mattsonfuneralhome.com.

Funeral Home: Mattson Funeral Home 343 North Shore Drive Forest Lake, MN US 55025

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Previous Events

Visitation
Friday, June 24, 2016
Service
Friday, June 24, 2016
cemetery
Friday, June 24, 2016

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