Dale graduated from Breckenridge High School in 1945 and earned a degree in Agricultural Education from Texas A&M University in 1949. In 1950, he married Dorothy Weir in Jacksboro, Texas. A proud veteran, Dale served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War from 1951 to 1953. He graduated from the Army Counterintelligence School and later served as a Special Agent.
Dale dedicated his professional life to soil conservation. He worked for the Soil Conservation Service in Jacksboro, Nocona, Gainesville, and Temple, Texas, ultimately retiring in 1989 from the United States Department of Agriculture as head of the Public Information Office in Temple. A prolific writer and passionate advocate for land stewardship, he authored numerous conservation articles and three books: "Short Duration Grazing", "The Uncharted Trail of a Texas Conservationist", and "Taming Texas Dust Storms". Throughout his career, Dale received many accolades, including the USDA’s Superior Service Award and two national honors for his work with Earth Team Volunteers.
In retirement, he pursued his passion for bridge, owning the Rolling Hills Duplicate Bridge Club from 1993 until June 2019. He achieved the rank of Silver Life Master in the American Contract Bridge League.
Dale was a devoted member of First Baptist Church in Temple. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Dorothy (“Dot”); his son, Steve; daughter-in-law, Melissa; brothers Fred and Chester Allen; and his parents.
He is survived by his daughter, Dixie of Temple; two sons, Dan of Leander and Stan of North Richland Hills, Texas. Affectionately known as “Haha,” Dale was a cherished grandfather to ten grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, and five great-great-grandchildren.
He will be remembered for his intellect, service, deep love for the land and family, and his lasting contributions to Texas conservation.
The family will receive visitors from 5:00 - 7:00 PM Tuesday, June 24, 2025 at Scanio-Harper Funeral Home, 3110 Airport Rd., Temple, Texas 76504. A funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM Wednesday, June 25, 2025 at First Baptist Church of Temple, 8015 West Adams Ave, Temple, TX 76502 with Dr. Joe Loughlin officiating. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Cemetery, 1873 N 1st St., Temple, Texas 76501.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dale’s honor at: https://mdanderson.donordrive.com/campaign/Dale-D-Allen- .
