Gordon "Gordy" Dingman

Gordon L. "Gordy" Dingman, 85, a nationally recognized artist and educator, died at Casa Grande Family Hospice on May 9, 2014, following a brief illness.

Mr. Dingman was born on Sept. 28, 1928, in New Ulm, Minnesota, to Harry and Edna Dingman. A Korean War veteran, artist, educator and author, he earned a Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Kansas. He retired as a full professor from Southwest State University in Marshall, Minnesota, in 1983 and taught stoneware ceramics at Central Arizona College for more than 20 years.

He was honored as an Outstanding Educator of America in 1970. Community art he created includes a 90-foot mural for the city of New Ulm and Stations of the Cross woodcarvings for St. Augustine Catholic Church in Chuichu Village.

He is survived by two older siblings, Robert Dingman and Jean Stone; his wife, Jill; two sons, Scott and Robert; and two grandchildren.

The celebration life will be held at J. Warren Funeral Services, Cole & Maud The Gardens Chapel in Casa Grande on Saturday, beginning at 5 p.m.