Dale Robert Tatman, age 93, of Mesa, Arizona, formerly Milford, Iowa, passed away peacefully at Banner Baywood Medical Center in Mesa, on November 28, 2022.
Dale graduated from Milford Schools in 1947. He was proud to tell many of his honors and experience at Milford Schools (lettering in Basketball, Football, Track, Chorus, Boys’ Quartet). He was especially proud to have his children, 9 of his 11 grandchildren, and many great grandchildren continue their education at Okoboji Community Schools. One of his favorite books next to his chair was the Okoboji All School Reunion Yearbook.
Dale served in the Air Force then worked at Farmers Savings Bank in Fostoria, IA for 40 years. In 1991, he retired and spent his remaining years between Iowa and Arizona golfing and teasing his grandkids.
It would take a novel to write the impact he had on his family and community. The grandkids in particular will always remember the silly songs and jokes, the words of encouragement and positivity, the love and kindness, and always the words “I love you, I’m proud of you”. Dale was an example of what it meant to love unconditionally.
Dale is survived and lovingly remembered by his wife of 67 years, Burdell Tatman, his three children Mary Gunderson of Overland Park, KS, Nancy Eckard (Ray) of Milford, IA, and Jeff Tatman (Deanna) of Peoria, AZ as well as his 11 grandchildren and many great grandchildren.
In the famous words of Grandpa Dale, “Isn’t that something?”
A memorial service will be held at the Milford Cemetery on Saturday, July 15, at 10:30am. A luncheon will follow at Florence Park.
Condolences can be sent to Burdell Tatman c/o Nancy Eckard 1507 H Avenue, Milford, Iowa 51351.
