6/7/1920 – 2/13/2016
Dale received his BS in business in 1941 from the University of Nebraska. After the war, he obtained his JD degree from the University of Nebraska in 1948, on the GI Bill. After graduation, Dale joined Northern Natural Gas, which later became Internorth. He spent his entire career there, holding various positions, starting in the legal department. He retired as Chief Financial Officer and Vice-Chairman of the Board. He influenced many careers and mentored many people, both directly and through the example he set with his integrity and high ethical standards.
Dale held nearly every volunteer or layman position in the church. He was Church School Superintendent, he was Lay Leader, Delegate to the State Conference, Chairman of the Administrative Board, Founder and President of the Foundation and served on many committees.
Dale was Chairman of the Interracial Committee for the desegregation of the Omaha Public Schools, He was President of the Omaha Chamber of Commerce, President of the Omaha Industrial Foundation, Chairman of the Boards of Nebraska Methodist Hospital and Methodist Health System, A Trustee of the University of Nebraska Foundation, on the Board of trustees of Nebraska Wesleyan University, on the Board of Boy Scouts, Co-Founder of Omaha Community Foundation; he has been honored by the NCCJ, Urban League, the NAACP, the Boy Scouts Man of the Year, the Perry Branch Award from the University of Nebraska Foundation, Methodist Hospital’s Crystal Dove Award Winner, Woodmen of the World’s Man of the Year, and he received an Honorary Doctorate of Law from the University of Nebraska at Omaha for his service to the community.
Dale served 4 years in the Army during World War II, of which nearly 2 years was overseas. He was with the 5th Armored Division that participated in all 5 campaigns of Northern Europe. While in Germany he was awarded the Bronze Star. At the time of his discharge he was a Captain.
Notwithstanding his broad interests in life, Dale’s primary and overriding interest has always been his family. He was a devoted and loving husband to Pat for 70 years. He always maintained that Pat was the key to this great relationship that never faltered during their marriage. He was extremely proud of their 3 children. Each was outstanding in his or her field of endeavor.
Dale stated many times that he was extremely fortunate to have such a wonderful wife and family and to have such a rewarding life.
Dale was preceded in death by his Parents; Brothers: Myrl & Elton Te Kolste. He is survived by his Wife of 70 years: Patricia; Children: Sara Pickens, Nancy Velardi (Leon Pelletier), Robert Te Kolste (Sheri Harrison); Grandchildren: Matthew & Andrew Pickens, Garrett & Olivia Te Kolste; And many loving Nieces & Nephews.
Visitation Wednesday 5-7 PM at 108th Chapel; Service 11:30 AM Thursday (2/18/2016) at Presbyterian Church of the Cross 1517 S. 114th St Omaha, NE; Interment Forest Lawn Cemetery at Omaha, NE
Memorials to Methodist Hospital College of Nursing, Presbyterian Church of the Cross, or charity of your choice.
