Donald Russel Meidinger

Donald Russel Meidinger

Donald Russel Meidinger, 72, of Lodi, California, passed away peacefully on August 5, 2025, surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with diabetes and heart complications.

Born in December 1952 in Victor, California, to Russel Donald Meidinger and Mary Magdalena Plines, Don dedicated his life to serving his community and family with unwavering commitment and generosity.

Don devoted 40 years of service to San Joaquin County and was a passionate volunteer firefighter with the Mokelumne Fire Department for 20 years, where he also served on the board of directors. His tireless advocacy and community leadership led to the successful passage of Measure A, which funded the construction of the Lockeford fire house, ensuring improved emergency services for his neighbors. Don was also an active member of the Native Sons of the Golden West and Lodi Moose Lodge.

A gifted engineer and entrepreneur, Don founded MYDINGRS BBQ PRODUCTS, building the business from the ground up. He possessed an exceptional ability to build, repair, and create with his hands, taking great pride in teaching traditional skills and his philosophy of fixing rather than replacing. His passion for traditional German cooking and barbecue, along with his generous spirit, made his home a gathering place where visitors could always expect a warm meal and something from his garden to take home.

Don was united in marriage to Vickie Lock for almost 50 years. Their partnership weathered all of life’s seasons with love, determination, and mutual support. He was immensely proud of his daughters and found great joy in his role as grandfather. His bond with his grandson Rowdy was extraordinary - they spent time together every week, and Don passed down all his traditional skills and knowledge. Don was a dedicated sponsor and supporter of Rowdy’s baseball teams and rodeo competitions, never missing an opportunity to cheer him on. Rowdy will continue the family business legacy with Vickie’s support.

Don is survived by his beloved wife, Vickie Lock; daughters Deanna Yates (Ronnie) and Aimee Smith (Mathew); grandchildren Rowdy Yates, Ezra Smith, and Juniper Smith; and numerous extended family members including cousins in the Meidinger and Plines families, and in-laws Jeannie Jones and her family and Dan Lock and his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Russel Meidinger and Mary Plines-Meidinger, and his siblings Dolores Wilkerson, Raymond Horst, Beverly Coussins, and Marianne Horst.

A celebration of Don’s life will be held on October 26, 2025, at the Clements Buckaroo Clubhouse.

Don’s legacy of hard work, community service, and devotion to family will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.
 

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