David Dinger, age 83, of Decorah, Iowa passed away on Friday, May 29, 2026, at Wellington Place in Decorah, Iowa.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Helms Funeral Home, 306 E Water Street, Decorah, Iowa with Rev. Michael Wilker presiding. Burial will be in Canoe German Methodist Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home on Friday, June 5, 2026.

Celebration of life will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Elks Club, 105 River Street, Decorah, Iowa following the service.

David was born on July 7, 1942, in Decorah, Iowa, the son of Roy and Leve “Peggy” (Hanson) Dinger. He attended country school through the eighth grade and graduated from Thomas Roberts High School in 1960.

David met the love of his life, Carol Kohrs, and they were united in marriage on January 15, 1966. Together they were blessed with three children: Brian, Penny, and Brenda.

In 1969, Dave and Carol moved back to Decorah, where he began a career with Case IH that would span nearly four decades. As an equipment hauler, Dave transported farm machinery throughout northeast Iowa. He greatly enjoyed sharing stories about the farmers he met, the places he visited, and the experiences he had while on the road.

Dave was an avid bowler who participated in weekly leagues and competed in numerous Elks tournaments throughout his life. He was especially proud of achieving a perfect 300 game. In the 1960s, Dave raced stock cars, a passion that later evolved into building and racing them with his son, Brian. Together, they spent many years enjoying weekend nights at the track. He was also a dedicated NASCAR fan. He traveled to races throughout the United States and spent countless hours watching the sport.

Dave and Carol loved to travel. After retirement they purchased an RV and spent many winters in Texas & Arizona while exploring destinations across the country. He was a proud member of the Elks, where he enjoyed many memorable trips and friendships through the years. Above all, Dave was devoted to his family. He was especially proud of his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Dave is survived by his wife of 60 years, Carol, of Decorah, IA; three children, Brian (Linda) Dinger of Decorah, IA , Penny (Tom) Fisher of Calmar, IA, and Brenda (Kelly) Thompson of Forest City, IA; his grandchildren, Quentin, Zachary (Valarie), Zebulen (Aubrey), Miranda (Luke), Cody, Chandler, Conner, and Chiara; and his great-grandchildren: Jackson, Owen, Aviana, Nora, Audrey and Bridget.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Leve “Peggy” Dinger; his in-laws, Silas and Marie Kohrs; his siblings, Kathryn, Durwin, and three infants.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Wellington Place and Howard County Community Hospice for the compassionate care and comfort they provided.