Floyd Richard “Rick” Dinkens, age 81 of Washington, Indiana, passed away August 2, 2026. Rick was born September 8, 1944, to Floyd L. and Margaret “Beese” (Seal) Dinkens.

On October 4, 1986, Rick married his wife of almost 40 years, Tina, and she survives. He is also survived by daughters Lisa (Ray) Emmick and Lisa (Chris) Connors, and daughter-in-law Michelle Dinkens. One son, Richard Dinkens, preceded him in death. He is also survived by ten grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and one great-grandchild due in January. Rick is also survived by his brother, David (Sue) Dinkens, sister-in-law Linda Dinkens, and several nieces and nephews. One brother, Ron Dinkens, preceded him in death.

Rick, “Dink”, as he was called, retired from Indianapolis Power and Light in 2000 after 33 years, most of those years as the supervisor of the lab. He was a veteran of both the Army and the Air Force and proud to have served his country. Always active in the community, Rick was a past member of the Washington Township Volunteer Fire Department, Washington Masonic Lodge serving as Worshipful Master, and past president of the Washington Conservation Club. He held several jobs after retirement, but the one nearest and dearest to his heart was driving a school bus as “Mr. Rick” for Washington Community Schools.

Adventure was Rick’s passion. Rick always had a motorcycle, held a pilot’s license, and enjoyed flying airplanes and remote-control planes tremendously. However, jumping out of the airplanes was more exciting than flying them. His first jump was at age 16 and he continued to skydive into the early 80’s. His most famous jump was on July 4, 1976 to celebrate the United States Bicentennial. That evening, he skydived into the Upper Lake at Eastside Park to signal the start of the fireworks. Although the exact number is unknown, Rick had hundreds of jumps to his name.

Services for Floyd “Rick” Dinkens will be Friday, August 7, 2026. Ed Lee Mortuary in Washington, Indiana, will hold visitation beginning at 3 PM and continuing until the time of service. The Masonic service, military honors, and funeral service will begin at 6:30 PM. Burial will be at a later date.