Dale Saunders

Dale Alan Saunders was born November 5, 1938, the son of Raymond and Gertrude Arnold Saunders. He passed away Sunday, September 23, 2012, at Eventide Lutheran Home in Denison, Iowa, at the age of 73.
Dale was born in Carroll, Iowa. He received his education in the Manilla Community Schools, graduating with the class of 1956. Dale was united in marriage to Johnet Weber on December 1, 1957, at the Manilla Presbyterian Church by Rev. Frederick Volzke and were blessed with the birth of two sons.
The couple farmed near Manilla and raised pigs and purebred British White cattle. Dale would show cattle beginning as a youngster in 4-H and attended many cattle and horse shows. Dale loved horses and had fond memories of his first Palomino "Pinky." He and the late John Rank started the Manilla Horse Club and the Crawford County 4-H Horse Club. "Fritzy" the border collie was a very special dog to Dale. Dale was a hardworker, never giving up on anything just because it was difficult. He enjoyed the early part of the day at 5 A.M. each morning. Dale was a part-time auctioneer away from his duties at the farm and had a good sense of humor.
Dale was a kind and compassionate person and a loving husband, father, and grandfather and was always willing to help others out. He enjoyed following his childrens activities. Dale was a Regional Director for AMPI, a member of Crawford County Pork Producers, a 4-H leader for the H & I Raiders, past president of the Crawford County Pork Producers, and a church Elder. He was diagnosed with Parkinsons Disease in 2000 and suffered its indignities with grace and good humor and never complaining. His faith gave him strength. Dale was able to stay in his home until 2008 when he entered Eventide.
Dale was preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include his wife, Johnet of Manilla; two sons, Rob Saunders and his wife, Susan of Oskaloosa, Iowa; and Jay Saunders and his wife, Laura of Pella, Iowa; four grandchildren; one great-grandchild; three brothers: Dean Saunders and his wife, Rosemary of Spencer, Iowa; Dr. Craig Saunders and his wife, JoDee of Basking Ridge, New Jersey; and Douglas Saunders and his wife, Patty of Manilla; other relatives and friends.