Jack was born June 18, 1968, in Belleville, IL, and made it his home. Jack served an exemplary 20-year career with the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Department, retiring as Correctional Lieutenant. He received numerous commendations, including 2004 Officer of the Year, but most important to him were the relationships. Jack valued those around him and made many close friends.
Awesome, Humble, Generous, Kind, Amazing, Genuine, Gift, Blessing, Best Friend, Great Guy; words commonly used to describe Jack – to know him was to love him. He adored his nephews and was an excellent role model, father figure and mentor. Family and friends meant everything to Jack. One of his regular spots was Dinges Auto Sales, and he especially enjoyed the camaraderie with Jerry, Steve, Dad and “the guys.” There wasn’t anything he couldn’t fix, improve or resolve. He loved going to the lake – boating and fishing were always fun. Bahamas, Mexico, Jamaica, Florida – anywhere with a beach! Walt Disney World was epic! His secret skill was cooking – BBQ, lasagna, and cheesecake from scratch! Jack enjoyed flea markets, gun shows and local festivals. Favorite concerts were Van Halen, Aerosmith, and Paul McCartney! He had an unparalleled sense of humor and was the calm in any storm. He loved Christmas, was our “family Santa,” and always chose the most thoughtful gifts; he truly cared about people and made them feel special. He participated in “Shop with a Cop” and adopted a family at Christmas. Jack was our treasure and will be missed every day.
The outpouring of support during Jack’s health issues over the last few years was overwhelming. From the hard work of organizing and executing a successful benefit, the donations that assisted with getting his diagnosis, and the meals, prayers, phone calls and cards – your love and support is the reason we got these few extra years; you truly made a difference for Jack and we are forever grateful.
Jack was preceded in death by his mother, Diane Claire Bode Dinges Neukam, who passed just three short weeks prior; stepfather, Kenneth R Neukam, Jr.; grandparents, Howard and Lois, nee Schaefer, Bode; Erwin and Mildred, nee Quirin, Dinges; an uncle, Howard Bode, Jr; and an aunt, Mary Jean Dinges.
Surviving are his father, Jack P. (Elaine) Dinges, Sr. of Smithton, IL;
heartbroken sisters, Sara (Stephen) Shirk of Columbus, OH, and Ann Marie Dinges of Swansea, IL;
beloved nephews, Benjamin Dinges and Cameron Dinges of Swansea, IL, Parker Shirk and Pearson Shirk of Columbus, OH;
dear aunt, Carol Bode of O’Fallon, IL;
uncles, Thomas Dinges of Belleville, IL, Jerry (Barb) Dinges of Belleville, IL, and Kent Bode of O’Fallon, IL;
Godchildren, Kristin (nee Dinges) Halloran, Kelsey Dinges, and Stephen Dinges, Jr.;
cousin and best friend Stephen Dinges, Sr.,
stepsisters;
bonus nieces and nephews;
cousins;
extended family;
and many cherished friends.
Memorials may be made to St. Clair County Sheriff’s Department Cadet Program, 700 N. 5th Street, Belleville, IL 62220-4404 or Toys for Tots. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
A graveside service and celebration of life will be held at a later date.