Donald O. Dingman

Donald O. Dingman, 87, of Dexter, NY, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on April 12, 2025, at Samaritan Medical Center. 

He was born July 31, 1937, in Watertown, NY, the son of Julius and Irma (Doxstader) Dingman.  Donald graduated from Dexter High School in 1955 and went on to attend college for 1 year at Clarkson University and 1 year at Oswego State College.  From 1959-1960 he proudly served in the United States Army Reserves.

Donald began his career as a Civil Engineer with the NYS Department of Transportation and was there for 38 years.  He then went on to work for Bernier, Carr & Associates for 17 years, retiring in 2012 after a long and dedicated career.

On October 15, 1960, he married the love of his life, Donna (Gutekunst) Dingman, in Pavilion, NY.  They resided in Watertown and then moved to Dexter where they raised their 3 children.

Donald was dedicated to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He spent many hours helping to build the Church of the Nazarene in Watertown.  He loved spending time with the Monday morning crew from his church, they spent time working on tasks around the church and drinking coffee. One of his favorite things was travelling around the north country to see the happenings and always checking out the local diners for a piece of pie.  He enjoyed watching NASCAR with his wife and also attended some races.  He loved spending time on the lake (from his childhood to adult) at their cottage on Piller Point.  He liked to keep you on your toes with conversation and his humor always came through.  He was always ready to lend a hand when someone needed it and was a well-respected mentor to many.

In addition to his parents, Donald was predeceased by his son, Daniel L. Dingman, on July 7, 2016, and a son-in-law, Robert J. Slate on December 15, 2019.  

He is survived by his beloved wife of 64+ years, Donna; his son David and daughter- in-law Rebecca Dingman of Dexter, NY; his daughter Darcy Slate of Dexter, NY.   He also leaves behind four cherished grandchildren: Benjamin Dingman, Elizabeth Dingman, Kathryn Slate and Nickolas Slate.

Arrangements are with Johnson Funeral Home, Dexter, NY.  A private burial will be held at Dexter Cemetery. Calling hours from 9 to 11 a.m. and memorial service at 11 a.m. will be held on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at the Life Church of the Nazarene, Watertown, NY.  The family will host a luncheon in the church gym immediately following the services.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Donald’s memory may be made to the Memorial Fund at the Life Church of the Nazarene.

Condolences may be shared at www.dexterfuneralhome.com

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