Obituary of Dale F. Petersen

Dale "Tex" F. Petersen, aged 88 and a long-term resident of Iowa City, passed away on Thursday, October 12, 2023, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.

Funeral services will take place at 10:00 am on Friday, October 20, 2023, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Iowa City, with burial following at Oakland Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Thursday from 4:00 to 7:00 pm at Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service. Memorial donations can be made in Dale's honor to St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

Dale Frederick Petersen was born on September 10, 1935, in Cedar Falls, Iowa, the son of Viggo and Eva (Miller) Petersen. He graduated from Cedar Falls High School and later earned a degree from the Iowa State Teachers College (UNI) in Cedar Falls and went on to earn his Masters Degree from the University of Iowa. Dale met the love of his life, Iola M. Kainz, on the very first day of college, and they were married on June 14, 1958, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Elkader, Iowa. Before their marriage and into his mid-twenties, Dale was a dedicated rodeo cowboy, competing across the country and winning prizes and trophies. Later, in Iowa City, Dale worked at the University of Iowa in the Department of Health Occupations Education for many years until his retirement. He played a vital role in establishing community college programs, particularly two-year nursing programs at institutions like Kirkwood, and the very first MA degree in Iowa. The Petersens also cherished their family farm in Elkader, Iowa, as a treasured family retreat filled with fond memories.

Dale was a devoted family man who held his family in the highest regard, along with their farm and their horses. He actively participated in the Johnson County Republican party, supported Iowa Hawkeye athletics, and enjoyed dancing with Iola in various ballrooms across eastern Iowa. He was also skilled in leather craftsmanship and had a remarkable knack for mastering a wide range of skills. Nevertheless, his deepest love and pride were reserved for his family. Family was the foundation of Dale’s life, and he joyfully shared his family's accomplishments and successes with everyone.

Dale is survived by his four children, Cynthia, Deanna, Thomas, and Andrew, along with ten grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife Iola, two sisters, and one brother.