LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — Thomas A. Dingwall Jr., a devoted husband, loving father and proud grandfather, passed away peacefully on April 13, 2025, Palm Sunday, with his beloved wife, Nellie Dingwall, by his side.
He was born in Petaluma, California, to Thomas A. Dingwall Sr. and Shirley Dingwall, who instilled in him a strong sense of family and dedication.
Thomas is survived by his siblings, Kathy Schnell and Mary Dingwall Dunnigan. He leaves behind his son, Courtney Dingwall; stepchildren, Bob Rivas, Anthony Rivas and Christina Rivas; and grandchildren, Isaiah Smart, Isabella Cubilla, Christian Cubilla, Ava Dingwall and Alicen Dingwall. His great-grandchildren, Atreyu Smart and Millie Smart, brought him immense pride and joy in his later years. He also is survived by nieces, a nephew, cousins and many compadres.
He started his career by working at Lombardi’s French Bakery being a bread driver for many years. He then went to become a district sales manager for Oroweat Bakery where he worked for 31 years. He loved what he did and he was good at it.
He was also a dedicated Sacristan at St Mary’s Immaculate Church. He dedicated his time to his religion and faith. He was a part of the Knights of Columbus as well.
He loved to work outside in his garden and plant beautiful flowers and vegetables. He had a green thumb for sure. He loved to barbecue and cook for his family and friends. He loved to play golf and watch his favorite team sports like the SF Giants Baseball and 49er Football teams.
He met his loving wife Nellie in the bread aisle at Lucky's Market back in 1986. It was love at first sight. They got married in 1990. This July would have been their 35th wedding anniversary. Their love for each other will live on forever.
Known for his kind heart, steady presence and deep commitment to his family, Thomas will be remembered with love and gratitude by all who were fortunate enough to know him. He will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts. We love you PAPA!
Rosary at St. Mary Immaculate on Thursday, May 1, at 9:30 a.m. followed by a funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m.
Interment will immediately follow Mass at Saint Mary's Cemetery in Lakeport.
Arrangements by Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary, 707-263-0357 or 707-994-5611, or visit www.chapelofthelakes.com.
Thomas A. Dingwall
- Elizabeth Larson