Deanna Lynn Dinkel, 84, of Twin Falls, Idaho passed away at home surrounded by her family on January 28, 2022.
Deanna was born on May 17, 1937, in Oakland, California to Ray and Marian (Fitts) Johnson. Growing up, Deanna was a quiet and kind-hearted child that cherished books and all the knowledge they brought her.
It wasn’t until Deanna met the love of her life that she began to explore all of life’s beauty. Deanna married Ronald Scott Dinkel on April 19, 1958, at the Walnut Creek Presbyterian Church in Walnut Creek, California. After enjoying their honeymoon in Las Vegas, they returned home and began to make a life of their own. Ron and Deanna had three children: Matthew, Edward, and Kristine. While raising their children, their home became the “fun” house. Deanna had a desire for being the perfect hostess. Kids would come to enjoy the pool in their backyard. They would play volleyball, shuffleboard, and horseshoes. She always made her children and other kids feel special and cared for.
Deanna’s passion for learning landed her a job at the University of the Pacific. She was a secretary for the Dean of the School of Education. Having a good education was very important to Deanna. She believed that there was something new to learn every day and was an avid reader.
Ron and Deanna, more commonly known as Dee, began a Domino Club with some of their closest couple friends. They would set aside all their winnings for an annual tropical trip. Dee looked forward to this every year as she loved the warm sunshine. They took trips to places like Fiji, Cozumel, and other ports along the Mexico shoreline.
Dee’s family meant everything to her. As a grandmother, she became known as Nanny, a name which was called to her by those not even her grandkids. If she was in their presence, she was delighted. She enjoyed spending time at home with her loved ones. She nurtured a flower and vegetable garden every year. Nothing would make Dee happier than having her grandchildren and great grandchildren appreciate her garden pickings. Dee also cared deeply for all her nieces and nephews. She found joy in hearing about all their schooling, marriages, babies, and traveling experiences.
While Dee loved her family beyond measures, she had a special love for her Australian Sheppard, “Sweet Mary”. Mary was Dee’s best friend, following her around the home, bringing love and snuggles, as well as a companion. Mary was originally supposed to be Ronald’s dog. However, their bond was inseparable. Sweet Mary became Dee’s baby.
Dee is survived by 3 children; Matthew (Valerie) Dinkel of Twin Falls, Edward (Linda) Dinkel of Filer, and Kristine Fitts of Twin Falls, 6 grandchildren; Bryce Dinkel, Stephen Girling, Nicki Girling, Adam Etcheverry, Benjamin (Tiera) Etcheverry and Emily Etcheverry, 6 great- grandchildren, 1 sister; Linda Casellini of Citrus Heights, California, 2 brothers-in-law; John (Mary) Dinkel of Arizona, Larry Gustufson of California, as well as many nieces and nephews.
Deanna is preceded in death by; her husband; Ronald Dinkel, both her parents; Ray and Marian Johnson, 1 sister; Rae Gustafson.
A beautiful ceremony is planned for later this summer, near Santa Cruz California. Ronald, Deanna, and sweet Mary’s remains will be scattered at sea.