Dale Frederick Hardeman

Dale Frederick Hardeman, age 76, left this world on June 23, 2021, to go meet his wife Lucy in God’s arms. Even though Dale will be missed, he is at peace now with his Lucy, which is where he wanted to be more than anything else.

Dale was born to his parents Marvin, better known as Jack and Eula Hardeman on July 28, 1944, in Montebello CA, and was raised in Norwalk, CA. with his two brothers Lee and Gary. Dale met his dream girl/accordion teacher Lucille at the ripe age of 11 years old, and from that point until the moment, she was given her wings, she was his whole world. Dale could not possibly imagine his life without her. Little did Dale know he was in for the long haul. A long haul full of love, laughter, and the world of music. Dale graduated Norwalk High in 1962 and moved on to go to college at Cal State University, Los Angeles where he obtained his degree in Public Administration & Finance. In 1965 Dale found the courage in his heart to enlist in the United States Army which led him to the frontlines of the Vietnam War. Dale was wounded in combat, but after his platoon leader became aware that he could play the accordion and the piano, he was moved to the military hospital where he played music for all the wounded soldiers while he recovered from his injuries. Dale served our country for a total of four years before he was honorably discharged. Dale resided in Downey, CA. for many years. Lucille and her husband Lewis, being the kind and loving Italian people they were, they welcomed Dale into their family. He then became a father figure to Lucille’s first two children Cecilia and Joseph.

On March 4, 1977, he was blessed with his shining star, Angela. Dale remained in Downey for many years playing and making music with his Lucy, their fellow accordion group, the Downey choral and much, much more. Even though Lucille was married to Lewis, that didn’t steer Dale in any other direction. He remained devoted to Lucille until she and Lewis divorced in 1986. Because of their kindred friendship, Dale and Lucy were bound to be together forever. In 1987, Dale, Lucy, and Angela moved from Downey to Rancho Santa Margarita where they lived for over 35 years until God took them both home.

In 1994 Dale decided to further his career by studying law at Western State College of Law at Argosy University. Dale continued his career as a Civil Litigation attorney while writing and composing music of his own and for the Pacific Symphony Orchestra. Dale became sick in 2006 with Leukemia, which caused him to close his law firm. He was then able to focus on his family and his music. With his diagnosis, he was concerned that he would leave us soon, so he asked his Lucy to marry him. In 2010 they finally tied the knot. This was a celebration for everyone they knew. Music and family were everything to Dale. He wasn’t just an accordion student, a Vietnam veteran, a lawyer, a composer, and a musician. Dale was a husband, a father, a grandfather, a brother, a friend, and a mentor and inspiration for many he crossed paths with.

Like every other thing in this world, the life we live is only temporary, but the impression that we leave on those that are left behind is something that will be there forever.

Dale was survived by his daughters, Angela and Cecilia; his grandchildren, Abby, Alex, Tori, Olivia, and Heather; his great-grandchild Evelyn; his two brothers, Lee and Gary; his sister, Jackie.

Dale is preceded in death by his wife Lucille and his son Joseph.