Myrtle K. Dynes, 80, Dickinson, died Friday, March 19, 2010 at St. Joseph’s Hospital & Health Center, Dickinson. A Celebration of Myrtle’s life will be at 11 a.m., Saturday, March 27, 2010 at the First Congregational/United Church of Christ in Dickinson with Pastor Janel Kolar officiating. Visitation will be from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m., Friday at Ladbury Funeral Service with a prayer service at 7 p.m., visitation will continue at the church on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers the family prefers memorials to the Dickinson State University Foundation or to the donors choice.
Myrtle was born October 13, 1929 to Carl and Anna (Erickson) Erikson on the family homestead near Arnegard. Myrtle’s love of history, reading, language and music began early and never dimmed. She graduated from Watford City High School in 1948 and then enrolled in Dickinson State Teachers College.
At Dickinson State, Myrtle met George Dynes when they were cast opposite each other in the campus production of “Little Women.” Myrtle graduated in 1953 and, over the years, taught in Scranton, Grand Forks and Versippi, as well as Fisher Minn. Myrtle and George married on May 30, 1953 and settled in Dickinson.
Even without a classroom, Myrtle found teaching moments everywhere. She and George sparked an interest for adventure and travel for their family through their many camping trips in their Starcraft camper. She volunteered at her children’s schools and served as a Campfire Girls group leader. Myrtle loved flowers and always enjoyed her garden.
Myrtle was a talented golfer and a member of the Dickinson Country Club from 1963 to 1999. She was active in the Alpha Sigma Alpha sorority and the first President of Chapter AQ of PEO, an organization she belonged to for over 50 years. She served in numerous capacities at the First Congregational Church including teacher, choir member, youth leader, camp counselor and moderator. She belonged to St. Cecelia’s music club and served on the Community Concert Board of Directors. Myrtle was an active member of the Friends of the Library. Since 1988 she was a member of Round Table Study Club. Myrtle was a tireless supporter of Dickinson State University.
Myrtle spent many happy winters with George in their Tucson home, traveling as much as she could until health problems kept her closer to Dickinson. Despite her recent physical limitations, Myrtle’s determination and perseverance continued to inspire those who knew her. Myrtle was well loved and will be deeply missed.
Myrtle is preceded in death by her parents, two sisters and four of her brothers. Myrtle is survived by her husband, George; five children, LuAnne (Rob) Engh, Laurel, Mont., John Dynes, Casper Wyo., Julie (Bob) King, St. Paul, Minn., Jane Dynes, and David (Wendy) Dynes, Fargo; grandchildren: Jennifer (Kevin), Allison (Kevin), Michael, Michelle, Lindsey, Kristine, Sarah (Brendan), Jessie, Rob, Keaton and Dawson; great-grandchildren: Cole and Ally Jane. Myrtle is also survived by two brothers: Phillip (Nita) Erikson, Grand Junction Colo., and C. John (Violet) Anderson, Watford City, as well many nieces and nephews.
