John Dinkins

John Dinkins (G’pa John) passed away on April 1, 2024. 

He was born on July 22, 1942, in Sedro Woolley, Washington to Gladys and Thomas Dinkins. John was a small man in stature but had the biggest heart ever (“don’t tell anyone”). 

Family and friends were the most important part of his life. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and loved teaching his wife, children and grandchildren his passion. 

John was an electrician by trade and a proud member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers until he retired in 2002. At the age of 81, John was proud to tell everyone that he was the oldest Dinkins man to live since his father and grandfather had passed at a much younger age.

In his early years, John shot professional fast draw. He was a member of the Los Tiradores Fast Draw club and won many awards. He also taught hunter safety to numerous young and upcoming hunters.

John married the love of his life, Karen, on Sept. 27, 1986. He was a recovering alcoholic and told everyone when he married Karen that he gave up alcohol and chasing women but was not giving up his cigarettes.

In 1987 he went to work as the General Foreman and then later as the superintendent of the electricians on Johnston Atoll for two years. His wife was able to join him four months after he started work on the island. When they returned, they made their home in Sedro Woolley, Washington. John was not able to work in the trade due to a hand injury and then worked as an electrical estimator until 2001 when he had AAA and triple bypass surgery and subsequently retired.

During these years, he enjoyed hound hunting and horseback riding and was a member of the local chapters of the Washington State Hound Association and the Backcountry Horseman. He was also a lifetime member of the Wildcat Steelhead Club and fished to his heart’s content after retirement. He was known at the Steelhead Club for his blue tractor and cleaning up the boat launch after a flood. 

In 2007, he moved to Libby, Montana where he could truly enjoy his outdoor passions. He was known around town as the “guy that delivered fish.” He also joined the Igniters Car Club and loved driving around in his 1940 Ford. He loved telling stories to everyone (often times the same one). 

John meant so much to a lot of people and loved being called “Grandpa” by all. His granddaughter said it best, “My hunting buddy, fishing buddy, confidant, reloader, my rock, my advisor, MY Grumpa and MY best friend” to all.

John fell ill at the beginning of hunting season in October 2023. He fought hard over the last five months with his wife caring for him every day. Although he was weak, he was still able to participate in very special hunting achievements with his family and had a very special Christmas with the grandkids.

John leaves behind his wife, Karen of 37 years, his brother Butch, daughter Kelly (Marvin) Bryant, son Bruce (Teresa) Engle, and daughter Bonnie (Russell) Gronemyer. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Deborah and Randy Buckner, Kristi (Mersadies) Gallagher, Zeke and Logan Engle and his great-grandchildren Dylan, Hunter and Fisher Buckner. 

He was preceded in death by his mother Gladys Klein, stepdad “Pops” and his father. 

At John’s request, there will not be a funeral. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. Until we see you again, WE LOVE YOU!

From your wife: You are the love of my life forever.

From Gus: You are the best dadles a girl could hope for.

From your G’da: You are the best G’pa ever.

In lieu of flowers, the family would love for you to share a story. Arrangements are under the care of Schnackenberg Funeral Home of Libby, Montana. Online condolences and memories may be shared by visiting www.schnackenbergfh.com.