Michael Anthony Dinkla

Michael graduated from Duval Charter School and earned an Occupational Associate degree from JTECH. Michael’s love of automobiles led him to apply his skills at Tire Kingdom and Tire Outlet as a technician/mechanic.

He participated in scouting throughout his youth. He developed a love for hip-hop music and wrote and recorded his original songs. His passion was participating in sports. He began with gymnastics, which gave him the confidence and grace that became a part of his personality throughout his life. He channeled his skills into football (rightfully earning the nick name “Mad Dog”), baseball, football, basketball, football, wrestling, and football.

Michael’s “trademark” was his infectious smile. He smiled when he met you, while you spoke, and when he said goodbye. Every conversation with those he knew best, ended with his smile and a “love you”. He was the most trusting, generous, loyal person that anyone could ever hope to know just once in a lifetime.

Michael is survived by his beloved parents Patricia (Patterson) Dinkla and Klaas Dinkla and by his only son, Nicolas Jean Kay and his three brothers, Chris Olson, Cameron and Matthew Leppard. He leaves behind seven uncles; six aunts and we’re still counting the cousins!

The world is a little darker when not being lit by his smile, a little colder without his warmth, and an awful lot emptier for those who loved him. Godspeed Michael.

A funeral mass will be celebrated on September 9, 2025 at 10:00 AM at Our Lady Star of the Sea located at 545 A1A North, Ponte Vedra Beach.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Autism Speaks, autismspeaks.org