Dale Dryer died March 10, 2014.
He was born at home in Hambden Township, Ohio, on Feb. 16, 1933. He joined the United States Army as a paratrooper in the 11th Airborne Division in 1951. He was honorably discharged in 1954, after serving in the Korean War. His service to his country was something he held close to his heart and was very proud of.
In 1960, Dale moved to Ketchum, Idaho, with the mother of his children, Rita Gruener. Dale was a chef at Sun Valley, a farmer in Jerome and a cowboy. He was the original “Black Jack Ketchum” and a founder of the “Shoot Out,” which was a long time tradition.
In 1973, Dale moved back to Hambden where he made hay while the sun was shining, threw awesome parties and cooked the best holiday meals ever. He spent his retirement years gardening and collecting Native American memorabilia. He had friends across the United States that he had many adventures with.
He was preceded in death by Baby Dale and his oldest daughter Elizabeth “Bunny” Dryer; Rika Dryer, mother of his children; numerous brothers, sisters and cousins; and his parents Frank and Ruth.
He is survived by his son Frank Dryer; daughters Babette Chumita, Jody Gruener and Carmen Dryer; grandchildren Dakota Dryer, River Dryer, Sunny Farrinacci, Cayne Chumita, Jamie Wheeler and Andrew Dryer.
This patriot now soars with eagles and runs with wild horses. We will have his Idaho celebration of life at a later date to be announced this summer.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests random acts of kindness in his memory.
Goodnight, Dad.
