Dale Kim Ming Der

Dale Kim Ming Der, 88, passed peacefully in his sleep on June 14, 2026. Dale was born August 10, 1937, in Guangzhou (Canton), China, to Harry Der and Yet Hing Woo Tse. A resident of Chandler, Arizona, Dale will be remembered with deep admiration for his kind, compassionate soul and his endless appreciation and respect for his family, friends, and the world around him.

As a teenager, Dale immigrated from China to Canada, where he began a lifelong career in the hospitality industry. Over the years, his working life reflected both diligence and adaptability—serving as a hotel bellman, later becoming a restaurant owner and chef, and also working as a hotel transport driver. In each role, Dale carried himself with an honest, dependable presence, and he found genuine satisfaction in work that allowed him to meet people from all walks of life.

Dale shared 67 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Betty Der. Together they built a family grounded in love, kindness, and consideration for one another. Dale is survived by his daughters, Anna Hoffman (Tom) and Rosanne Walker (Chris); his son, Daniel Der (Holly); and his grandchildren, Hailee Hoffman, Alex Hoffman, Camilla Der, Keegan Der, and Jade Walker. He is also survived by his sister, Ying Wong.

Dale cherished time spent with family and friends, especially when hosting barbecues that brought everyone together—simple gatherings that carried the warmth of his selfless spirit. He loved pursuing photography and gardening, and thoroughly enjoyed practicing tai chi in the park with friends. An avid follower of the stock market, he also found enjoyment in stamp and coin collecting earlier in life. Dale will always be remembered for his youthful exuberance, the joy emanating from his eyes and his smile, and his lifelong passion to help everyone around him.

Viewing and Visitation for Dale will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, from 9:30 am to 10:00 am. Dale's Funeral Service will follow at 10:00 am with his Graveside Service and Committal afterwards at 11:00 am, all services at Valley of the Sun Mortuary and Cemetery, 10940 E Chandler Heights Road, Chandler, Arizona 85248.

Afterwards, there will be a lunch reception at 12:00 PM at Phoenix Palace Restaurant: 2075 N Dobson Road, Chandler, Arizona 85224 following Dale's services at Valley of the Sun Mortuary and Cemetery.

Dale’s life was one of joy, respect, and appreciation —guided by honesty, shaped by culture and experience, and driven by faithful love for family and a sincere regard for others. He will be deeply missed and respectfully remembered by all.