James E. Dingwerth
James E. Dingwerth, known to his loved ones as Jim, passed away on June 8, 2024, at the age of 84 in Phoenix, Arizona. He was born on February 19, 1940, in Grand Island, Nebraska, as the eldest of four children to John and Clara Dingwerth. His kindness, generosity, adventurous spirit, and love for his family remained constant throughout his life.
Jim had a passion to see the world, which led him to join the Peace Corps early in life, where he was entrusted with building schools ground up in the more rural parts of Peru, from the tops of the mountains to the tropical jungle. There he met a lovely woman, Toni, who would later become his wife, best friend, and travel companion as he explored new nations and cultures. He began his career as a teacher, which led him to his true calling as an educational counselor and psychologist, earning his double masters from the University of Nebraska. He continued his professional path by working in international school systems all around the world, including Iran and Saudi Arabia.
In retirement, Jim continued to pursue his love of travel, visiting several countries and taking numerous cruises. Jim believed strongly in giving back to his community through volunteer work. His most notable service was as a guardian ad litem under Arizona's Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program, where he served the best interests of foster children. Jim is survived by his beloved wife Toni Dingwerth, son Johnny Dingwerth, daughter and son-in-law Vanessa and Scott Cradick, granddaughter Erin Cradick, sister Joan Mathias, sister and brother-in-law Jean Zeplin and Allen Deaton, brother and sister-in-law Joe and Pat Dingwerth, and several nieces and nephews.
Jim lived his life on his own terms, fulfilling his lifelong dreams and living life to the fullest. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He will be dearly missed.