February 18, 1936 – September 6, 2023
Richard Mac Dellinger, 87, Noblesville, passed away on Wednesday, September 6, 2023, at Riverview Health in Noblesville. His sons and daughter-in-law were by his side. He was born on February 18, 1936, to Dilver and Ruth (Larimer) Dellinger in Elwood, Ind.
Dick was a 1954 graduate of Elwood High School, received a bachelor’s degree from Ball State, and a master’s degree from Butler. He taught U.S. Government at Noblesville High School from 1959 to 1997, and Mr. D’s class was the gateway to graduation for many anxious students. Dick was a Hamilton County Basketball Hall of Fame member as a contributor. He was the not always impartial Voice of The Millers football and basketball games over three decades.
Dick served as a Noblesville City Councilman and in the Indiana House of Representatives from 1972 to 1992. He famously stood on his desk in the House chamber when the House was split 50-50 and the Democratic Speaker refused to recognize Republican members. Dick was named Sagamore of the Wabash twice by former Governors Otis Bowen and Robert Orr. He was a member of Noblesville First United Methodist Church, Noblesville Masonic Lodge, and Noblesville Elks Club.
Dick is survived by his sons, Rick M. (Karen) Dellinger and Mike Dellinger; grandchildren, Clare (Steven) Kottwitz, Jacob (Rachel) Dellinger, and Jillian Beatrice Dellinger; and his great-grandchildren, William George Kottwitz, Katelyn Ann Kottwitz, Laura Lynn Kottwitz, and Joseph Ian Dellinger. Although his family was spread across the country, he enjoyed their visits and video calls.
In addition to his parents, Dick was preceded in death by his wife, Janice Bolton Dellinger; and sisters, Dora Boris and Janet Milakis.
Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 8, 2023, at Randall & Roberts Funeral Home, 1150 Logan St., Noblesville. An additional visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to noon, with services at noon on Saturday, September 9, 2023, at the funeral home. Rev. Stanley R. Sutton will officiate. Burial will be at Crownland Cemetery in Noblesville.
Memorial contributions may be made to Humane Society for Hamilton County, 10501 Hague Road, Fishers, IN 46038 (hamiltonhumane.com); or Riverview Health Foundation, 395 Westfield Road, Noblesville, IN 46060 (riverview.org/foundation).
Condolences: randallroberts.com
Mr. Dellinger was a great teacher. I was in his class, when the announcement came over the intercom that President Kennedy had been assassinated.