SPEARFISH- Dr. George C. Rinker, 91, died January 1, 2014 at the David M. Dorsett Healthcare Center in Spearfish. He was born in Hamilton, KS on April 8, 1922 to Edna T. and Glen C. Rinker. He received an A.B. Degree from the University of Kansas in 1946; M.S. Degree in 1948 and Ph.D. in 1951 from the University of Michigan. He was Assistant Professor of Anatomy at the University of Michigan Medical School from 1950-1962. He was Professor of Anatomy from 1962 until his retirement in 1984 at the University Of South Dakota School Of Medicine. He also held other positions: Coordinator of Student Affairs; Assistant Dean for Student Affairs; Associate Dean for Basic Sciences. He was very instrumental in the transition of the Medical School from a two year to a four year program. George was a veteran of WWII. He served in the army Air Corp from February, 1943 until October, 1945. He was a pilot in the 557th Bomb Squadron, flying the Martin Marauder. After his honorable discharge, he was assigned to an Air Force Reserve Training Squadron in Ann Arbor Michigan from 1946-1962. He married Nana Mae Hartley on February 9, 1944. George and Nana were married for 52 years until Nana's death in 1996. They had three children. George had many interests, talents and hobbies. He and Nana purchased Black Hills property on which he built a log cabin, felling trees from the property, sawing the lumber from the trees with his sawmill and then constructing the cabin. This was the couple's life long dream for retirement, family gatherings and the hospitality of their guests. George's other interests besides being an avid hunter and fisherman were too many to mention. George was inducted into the South Dakota Hall of Fame on September 14, 1996. A year later, he moved to Spearfish, SD to be closer to family and his cabin in the Hills. He volunteered for many years, helping students in the Science Labs at Black Hills State University. He was devoted to students all of his professional life and loved being a teacher. George is survived by his daughter, Geri and husband John Konenkamp, Rapid City, SD, sons, David and wife Tsukie Rinker, West Valley City, UT, Jim Rinker, Rapid City, SD, brother, Richard Rinker, San Antonio, TX, four grandchildren and seven great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Respecting George's wishes, there will be no public services. A private family gathering will be held at a later time at his beloved cabin. George established two Scholarships for students. They are: The George Rinker Research Scholarship at Black Hills State University Foundation and USD Foundation-Rinker Scholarship Endowment. Cards may be sent to the family at 2413 Janet St., Rapid City, SD 57702