David Roger Dines

David graduated from Central State University in 1965 with a Bachelor of Science in Physics and Mathematics. He proudly served in the National Guard as part of the 179th Infantry Regiment, 45th Division, for three years. He went on to build a distinguished 35-year career with Western Electric, where his talent for designing, building, and fixing all kinds of things was matched only by his patient, detailed explanations of how they worked. He contributed to numerous patents, received many awards, including Engineer of the Year, and served as a member of the State Board of Engineers.

In June, sixty-four years ago, David married the love of his life, JoLeta Randel, and together they built a family and a lifetime of memories. He loved Roger Whittaker and Barbra Streisand, and he believed the perfect day was sunny with no wind. His children and grandchildren made him laugh, and he cherished every moment spent with them. Family trips were one of his greatest joys, including a recent unforgettable trip to Alaska.

David was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Ricky Dines; son-in-law, Rusty Persun; and brothers, J.W. Dines and Richard Dines.

He is survived by his wife, JoLeta Dines; daughter and son-in-law, Sherri and Richard Craig; daughter, Dianna Persun; grandchildren, James Craig, Ben (Nicole) Craig, Conal Persun, and Liam (Allie) Persun; and great-grandchildren, Peter, Killian, Westley, Moria, Elizabeth, and Noah.

A celebration of David’s life will be held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at Bill Merritt Funeral Service.

Honorary pallbearers are James Craig, Ben Craig, Conal Persun, and Liam Persun.