Miff Dikeman

(From Parker Mortuary)

Merry "Miff" Dikeman, a cherished mother, grandmother, and esteemed community leader, passed away on September 12, 2024, in Joplin, MO. She was born on September 4, 1941.

Miff's early years in Santa Fe, New Mexico, laid the foundation for a life marked by service and leadership. Married on September 2, 1964, to Mason Dikeman, they came to Joplin in 1970; where she became a pillar of the community. Her strategic thinking and charismatic leadership left an indelible mark on Joplin’s community.

Her contributions to the community included Membership Chairman of Joplin Little Theatre Board of Directors, President of the Joplin Historical Museum, Joplin Chamber of Commerce Leadership Joplin Committee, and Spiva Art Center Board. She was a long-time member of St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, serving on St. Margaret’s Guild and the Women of St. Philips. Miff was a past President of Chapter FI PEO Sisterhood. Under her guidance as the first woman to serve as General Chairman of the United Way Campaign; the organization achieved a historic fundraising milestone, surpassing the fundraising goal. As President of the Thomas Hart Benton Permanent Exhibit, she worked tirelessly to preserve and promote the legacy of the renowned artist, coordinating the display of his large scale mural depicting Joplin in 1900.

Along with her local community involvement, she was instrumental in the Missouri State Republican Party. In 1988, Miff was elected Missouri State Committee Woman to the Missouri Republican Party 32nd Senatorial District for Jasper, Newton, Dade, and Barton Counties. She organized a “Dole for President” Rally for Senator Bob Dole in Joplin.

She was Co-owner and Corporate President of Exclusively Her, Inc., a fine clothing store in Joplin. Later, Miff served as the station manager for KOZJ, Ozarks Public Television, where she championed quality programming and educational content. Retiring from corporate life; she trained to become a Licensed Nail Technician owning and operating a successful business and building a dedicated clientele.

Miff's legacy is carried on by her loving children. Survivors include a son, Glenn Dikeman; a daughter Kristina Ritter; son-in-law Todd Ritter; and grandchildren, Henry Dikeman, Etta Dikeman, Nick Ritter and Travis Ritter. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dr. John and Ruth Glenn; her devoted husband, Mason Dikeman; and her sister, Barbara Sue Walker.

Miff's life was a testament to her unwavering commitment to her family, her community, and the causes she held dear. Her leadership, generosity, and indomitable spirit will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Miff Dikeman's memory will continue to inspire future generations to live with purpose and to serve with passion.

A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, September 26th at 5:30 p.m. at St. Philip’s Episcopal Church in Joplin, MO. It will be officiated by Father Ted Estes. There will be a reception immediately following in the parish hall. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to St. Philip’s Episcopal Church.