Dale Herbert Friedemann

Dale was born at home to Arnold and Edith Friedemann on the family farm near Liberty, Nebraska, the eighth of ten children. He attended schools in Gage County and graduated in 1954 from Wymore High School. He graduated from the University of Nebraska in 1959 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Agriculture and in 1966 earned a Master Degree in Education from Colorado State University. At nearly five years old Dale sustained a crushing hand injury in a sorghum press, ultimately resulting in amputation. Growing up, he was teased for being different. He did not view himself as disadvantaged. Nothing held back his powerful convictions. He adapted and succeeded, finding humor or a positive aspect to all life situations and experiences. Dale met his life partner, Beverly Jean, at the University of Nebraska and they married on November 23, 1957. Dale worked as a County Agent Assistant while completing his college education and upon graduation was hired as a County Agent in Seward, NE. He worked with 4-H clubs, camps, fairs, etc. in Seward and Franklin counties until moving to Fort Collins, Colorado for his graduate education. In 1966, Dale left his mid-west roots with his young family. He accepted a job as a 4-H Agent with Oregon State University (OSU). Dale worked as a 4-H Youth & Education Extension Agent in Tillamook, Jackson, and Clatsop Counties until 1991. He served in a variety of professional leadership roles in the OSU Extension Association. Dale was inducted into the Oregon 4-H Hall of Fame in 2004, recognizing his significant impact upon the 4-H program, and its members and leaders. Dale was involved in Lions International for over 60 years, serving in numerous offices and committee positions from Nebraska to Oregon. He actively participated in fundraising events and community service projects to support the humanitarian efforts of the local club wherever he lived. During retirement Dale and Bev enjoyed extensive travels across the United States, as well as in Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, China, and Canada. His love of agriculture and nature provided miles of entertainment and years of memories. Dale had a passion for growing things, from unusual species to table foods. He was a fervent OSU Beaver fan, enjoying season tickets for football and baseball games for many years. GO BEAVS! Family was always a priority. Dale loved his grandchildren immensely. He delighted in their accomplishments and individualities. He is survived by his wife of 63 years; daughter Cindy (Chris) Nichols, sons Jon (Dee) and Scott; and grandchildren Katie, Keith, Andrew, Aimee, Nicole, and Kyle. Two of his six sisters remain living in Nebraska. His three brothers preceded him in death. Per Dale's request, his ashes are to be scattered about the giant Sequoia trees at his daughter's home. He harvested the seeds from cones he collected while hiking, and planted the baby trees in 2000. A private family service will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the OSU Foundation Dale H. Friedemann Scholarship Endowment, 4238 SW Research Way, Corvallis, OR 97333, or via osufoundation.org.