Robert Freed Dingler

ROBERT (BOB) FREED DINGLER, 80, passed away at his home Thursday, February 8, 2007. Bob was a compassionate man who would never shy from helping those in need. His devotion to his family and friends was surpassed only by his good nature and his zest for life. Bob was born in Elmira, NY on August 22, 1926. As a World War II Navy Veteran, Bob returned home after the war to "serve" his community as a successful business owner of Dingler’s Market in Etna and the Old 76 Club. His selfless giving provided many a families with the essentials when times were hard.

Bob’s first love, his family, started in Lansing, NY, then moved on to Etna, NY, where he

raised his four daughters and became a respected and central figure of the Etna Community. Bob’s love of music flourished as he mastered the "cordavox" accordion, clarinet, saxophone, piano and organ. His talent earned him selection to the Country Music Park Hall of Fame in 1985. Bob was also an accomplished pilot. It became routine to see his plane fly into and out of the Etna Airport. Tales of his travels were hot topics at many family gatherings. His love of fishing and "the cottage" filled his life with enjoyment. Bob retired in Newark Valley, NY and was also a member of the American Legion, The VFW, The Moose and The Elks.

Bob is predeceased by his wife, Helen, his parents William Freed and Josie, brothers Clay, Donald and George and his sister Ermina. He is survived by his four daughters, Diane Sherwood (Neil), Gloria Varga (James), Janice Knout (Chet Brion) and Dixie Mack (Jeremy Tyler); his stepson Daniel Ross; his brothers David and John Dingler, his sisters Mildred Carlton, Betty Jane Dingler and Mary (Kakky) Lain; eight grandchildren, eight great grandchildren.

Funeral Services will be at 2 PM Tuesday, Feb. 13th, 2006 at the Perkins Funeral Home with Rev. Phil Jordan officiating. Burial, delayed until spring, will be in Speedsville Cemetery. Friends and family may call on Monday, February 12, 2007 from 4 to 7 PM at funeral home, 55 West Main St., Dryden NY. The Dryden VFW will host a "gathering" immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Bob’s name to the Hospicare and Palliative Care Services of Tompkins County at 172 East King Road, Ithaca, NY 14850.