Dale L. Potter, USAF
October 2, 1934 – November 30, 2024

Dale Lawrence Potter was born on October 2nd, 1934, outside of Joseph, Oregon to George Lawrence Potter and Ilene (Thompson) Potter.  He passed away peacefully on November 30, 2024, in Centennial Colorado.

Dale grew up on the family ranch outside of Joseph.  He thrived in the outdoors, being around family and always maintained his sense of being from a small town.  He attended Joseph High School and Oregon State University, graduating in 1956. 

Dale was commissioned in the United States Air Force and served over 20 years as a bomber and search and rescue helicopter pilot before retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel.  He was awarded two Distinguished Flying Crosses for heroism in Vietnam; served as a military liaison officer for the Royal Thai Air Force in Thailand; and was stationed with his family in France, Okinawa, Arizona, California, and Washington.

After retiring, Dale was a High School ROTC instructor, worked as the Director of Training for the Saudi Air Force in Saudi Arabia and as a Field Archeologist for the National Forest Service.

Dale moved back to his home in northeastern Oregon in 1988. He did archeological surveys and participated in a dig in Hells Canyon; engaged in county politics; kept up with college football; and stayed active in local organizations. Dale’s love of books prompted him to open a bookstore in Joseph! He was equally passionate about the outdoors, traveling, cooking, reading, writing, and long road trips!

Dale is preceded in death by his parents, George Lawrence and Ilene (Thompson) Potter, both of Wallowa County.  He is survived by his four children: Wes (Cindy) Potter; Stacey (Jack) James; Jeff (Kelly) Potter and Mia (Mike) Brennan; his brothers Jay and Rodney Potter; eleven grandchildren; eleven great grandchildren; and additional family members and countless friends.

A celebration of Dale’s life will be scheduled in Joseph, Oregon this summer.

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As a Captain, Dale L. Potter served a tour in the Vietnam War as a HH-43F helicopter pilot in the 1965–1966-time frame.