Claudia Dinkel, 96, of Estelline, formerly of Brookings, passed away on Monday, August 17, 2020, at the Estelline Nursing and Care Center.  A private graveside service will be held, with burial taking place at Greenwood Cemetery in Brookings.  Eidsness Funeral Home is assisting Claudia's family with arrangements.

Claudia was born October 12, 1923, at Witten, South Dakota, to Howard and Laura Snethen. She married Christian Dinkel on March 23, 1946 in Omaha, Nebraska.

The couple were blessed with two daughters, Beverly King (Brad) of Bend Oregon, and Sharon Uhlig (Karl) of Missoula, Montana.  She is also survived by two grandchildren, Lisa King of Des Moines, Iowa, and Nathan King (Jennifer) of Bend, Oregon, and several nieces and nephews. Claudia also valued greatly the care and friendship of Mary Hill of Brookings.

Claudia was preceded in death by her husband, Chris, and a granddaughter, Celeste. She was also preceded by three brothers and two sisters.

Claudia loved her faith, family, friends, and her farm.  She also loved animals, especially her cats and horses and enjoyed gardening and being outside. Claudia was a long-time member of First United Methodist Church and was active for many years in the Girl Scouts of America. She was also a staunch supporter of SDSU Jackrabbit sports and enjoyed watching them play.

The family would like to thank the entire staff of Estelline Nursing and Care Center for the compassionate and expert care Claudia received.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Chris and Claudia Dinkel Scholarship Fund at SDSU.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

The Family of Claudia Dinkel

C/O Eidsness Funeral Home

1617 Orchard Drive

Brookings, SD 57006