Wayne A. Dinsmore

Wayne A. “Dinny” Dinsmore was born in Zion, Maryland on October 6, 1921. After high school, he enlisted in the Army in 1937. He spent his first years in the Army rising to the rank of staff (Drill) sergeant prior to being selected to attend Officer Candidate School. He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in January of 1943. His first assignment overseas was to India; he was involved in combat missions in Burma, and was assigned to locations in Japan after WWII, Korea (during the Korean War), Germany, and Austria for a total of over six years overseas. He was assigned to numerous locations in the United States before and after WWII and the Korean War. His last state-side assignment before retiring in February, 1962, was as commanding officer of a transportation detachment at the Oakland Army Terminal, Ca. Dinny retired as a Lieutenant Colonel with nearly 23 years of service to his Country.

Since his retirement in 1962, Dinny kept busy as a club/teaching golf professional full time and part time in Ca. and WA. Playing golf was one of his greatest enjoyments well into his 80s. He spent over 60 years in the Masonic Order and achieved a 33rd Degree. He also enjoyed square dancing, raising Tennessee Walkers, and other outdoor activities with his wife Althea (of 45 years) before her passing in 2011.

Dinny was a dedicated husband and father, a loyal friend, and a courageous and patriotic American. We will all miss his great stories, his sense of humor, his patience as a teacher (whether teaching about golf or about life), and his generosity.

Surviving Dinny are his sons Michael (Linda), Douglas (Joann), and Patrick (Melinda); his son Wayne, Jr., is deceased; his stepson Greg Matzen (Judy) and stepdaughter Judi Hughes (Dwight); seven grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Kids.