ZOBELL, Dale

Posted: February 12th, 2021

DALE RICHARD ZOBELL

November 9, 1952 – February 4, 2021

Dale ZoBell was born and raised by parents John and Doris just west of Raymond on the family farm. This is where he had “the best childhood ever” with his brothers and sister, all of whom he taunted and adored. His home was his pride, and he loved referring to himself as a farm kid. On May long weekend 1971 in the Waterton dance hall he met his best friend and love, Susan Brayley, and they were married in December of that year.

In choosing his career he didn’t stray far from his roots and studied animal science at both Oregon State University and Utah State University, where he would eventually earn his PhD specializing in beef cattle nutrition and reproduction. Dale’s first job was with Cargill, followed by Alberta Agriculture, and finally a professorship at Utah State University. He was passionate about what he did and would often say, “I love going to work”.

He raised his family in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints where he held a variety of leadership callings. Dale would jokingly say that he served his mission as a young man in Banff but his greatest mission came later in life through humanitarian work in 14 third-world countries. Dale and Susan’s lives were enriched through travel and exploration together; they visited 54 different countries in total. Dale, always the curious, soaked up the wisdom of contrasting cultures, mingling with and talking to the people.

In 2015 he retired and moved to the Coeur d’Alene area in northern Idaho to be closer to family. Dale loved fishing and spent much time in his boat; in solitude or with a grandkid or two in tow. He was fond of nature and he loved to be outdoors with a desire to get himself closer to the mountains. Skiing, hiking and camping fulfilled him, as did riding his bike with Sue. His favorite past time however, would be family time. He loved his family, he cherished his grandkids. He was the best story teller and could mesmerize them with all his tales. Being loud, entertaining, full of humour, and always doling out advice and words of counsel were his best qualities. “Nothing I’ve ever done or will do will compare to my family”.

He was always a proud Canadian even though he lived in the US for the last 23 years, only ever having missed a handful of July 1st celebrations in Raymond. He loved coming home.

Dale passed away peacefully eight months after being diagnosed with a Glioblastoma (brain cancer) in Coeur d’Alene. His Suzie was by his side.

He leaves behind his wife of 49 years, Sue, and their five children: Kerbi (David) Wolanski and daughters Hannah and Emma, Britney (Mica) Shaw and children Mazzy, Piper and River, Sage (Ryan) Henderson and children Tate, Sloan and Brenia, Tyler (Becky) ZoBell and children Mason, Natalie and Dallin, and Jordan (Bessie) ZoBell and children Jet, Finn, Remi, Kit and Indie.

Memorial service to be held in Raymond at a later date when border restrictions due to Covid-19 are lifted.

4 Condolences for “ZOBELL, Dale”

  1. Lorraine and Errol Tewson and family says:

    We will miss our brother..I feel though that he is not far away and he is laughing and talking to Aunts, Uncle, Mom and Dad, grandpas and Grandmas and many cousins. Even a brother Bobby whom he never met in this life. We are thankful for his life and his good family. We love our family.We the Tewson family send our deepest condolences at this time.

  2. Gordon L ZoBell says:

    Our brother is gone from this mortal life but I KNOW he still lives and is carrying on in paradise. He was a great example to all and gave much service to the disadvantaged of the world during his life here. He will be missed but we will catch up soon enough and his legacy lives on through his family!

  3. Mason ZoBell says:

    My grandfather is one of the most greatest men I’ve ever met. He gets things done and he has affected the lives of many (family, friends, students, people from other countries you name it.) What a truly great life he has lived. Knowing him, I know he wants me to know that someday we will all be together again. His passing has me thinking about this quote:
    Goodbyes are not forever
    Goodbyes are not the end
    It simply says I’ll miss you
    Until we meet again.

  4. Marilee Halvorson says:

    So sorry to hear of Dales passing.
    My love and condolences to the Zobell families♥️

Leave a Condolence for Lorraine and Errol Tewson and family