Raymond Hood Dings, 88, a retired land developer from Wichita, Ks., died Sunday (October 19, 2014) in Wichita.
He was born in Des Moines, Iowa on December 30, 1925, the son of Harold Hood and Elva Lorraine (Ashel) Dings. The family moved to Tulsa when Raymond was four years old, he attended Tulsa schools, graduating from Central High School in 1943.
He had worked at Douglas Aircraft prior to entering the U.S. Marine Corps. In February, 1945, he was shipped to Iwo Jima, Japan, where he served in Company C of the 4th Tank Division, under platoon commander Henry Bellmon.
Raymond and Helen were married on July 4, 1947 in Tulsa. They moved the family to Arkansas City, Kansas in August, 1952. Raymond moved to Wichita in 1973.
Raymond was later married to Lila Holmes and Kay Graber. His dear long time companions were Twila Marlar, now deceased, and Donna Toles.
He attended the First United Methodist Church in Wichita for many years, he was active in Wesley Friends, and delighted in attending the Senior dances held in community recreation centers. An avid gardener, he provided produce to many. Swimming was a part of Raymond’s life since Jr. High School and he won four gold medals in Kansas’ 1997 Senior Olympics.
Survivors include his four children, Janis Gregg and her husband Lee; Mark Dings, Bruce Dings, and Tracy Dings; one sister Betty Belcher; six grandchildren; and nine great grandchildren.
Raymond was preceded in death by his parents and son Chris Dings.
Private graveside services were held at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Tulsa.
In lieu of flowers, the family has established a memorial fund in his memory with Family and Children’s Services of Tulsa, contributions may be sent to Broadway Colonial Funeral Home, 120 E. Broadway, Newton, Ks. 67114.
Arrangements are by Broadway Colonial Funeral Home, Newton.