Dale Burton Smith

Dale Burton Smith, 86, of Tempe, AZ, passed away peacefully on Sunday December 11, 2022, surrounded by his family. Dale was born in Oketo, KS, and grew up in Manhattan, KS. Dale graduated from Manhattan High School earning top grades in mathematics and varsity letters in football and track. Dale attended Northeast Missouri State Teachers College (now Truman State University) on a football scholarship where he earned a B.S. in Education with an emphasis in mathematics and physical education, go Bulldogs.

Dale married his love, Wanda Lee Riffel, in 1960. While dating, Dale was almost not allowed to attend Baccalaureate as he and Wanda were caught kissing outside of the science building before the ceremony. After his first teaching jobs in Pattonville and Raytown, MO, the newlyweds relocated to Tempe in 1962 so he could complete a master’s in physical education at Arizona State University (and get away from the snow and ice). The Smiths welcomed two children into their family, Stephanie and Robert. Dale was a counselor and taught math at Gilliland Jr. High (now Geneva Epps Mosley Middle School) for over 25 years, often commuting by bicycle. He was a firm teacher who expected his students give their best. Dale was a devoted family man and a romantic at heart. He would surprise Wanda Lee by arranging for a babysitter and having her pack a bag so they could get away for the weekend.

Dale attended every sporting event Stephanie played or coached and encouraged Robert’s many endeavors including mountain bike racing, becoming a pastry chef at the Ritz Carlton, and graduating police academy in his 40’s. He was his children’s biggest cheerleader. This support carried over to his cherished grandchildren, Abineau and Lance. Dale loved being a papa. Dale’s impact on his children’s lives was not limited to their academic or athletic achievements, he and Wanda were also instrumental in building their concepts of family and faith. He treasured spending time with his family and friends, playing and watching sports, hiking, traveling, and volunteering at church, where he was an elder for many years. Dale was community minded. He was a member and president of his local chapter of Kiwanis Club and served Tempe Schools Credit Union (now Landings Credit Union) as a board member from 1985 to 2009. He loved telling humorous stories about his life and many adventures.

Dale and Wanda Lee travelled frequently with their best friends, Bob and Carol Jean Stephens. Among their most notable trips was the adventure to Ouray, CO. While in Ouray, Bob and Dale thought it would be fun to rent jeeps for an offroad tour even though they had never driven over such challenging terrain before. While the drive was a bit scary, all survived and had lots of laughs safely back at the cabin. Dale’s other favorite trips included a Mediterranean cruise, a bus tour from London to Paris, and a river cruise from Innsbruck to Amsterdam.

Dale was preceded in death by his parents Charles David and Ferne, older brother Charles Jr. (USN), and sisters Lois and Bonnie. Dale is survived by his wife of 62 years Wanda Lee, daughter Stephanie, son Robert, grandchildren Abineau and Lance (USN), and numerous nieces and nephews. Dale’s nieces and nephews adored him, and he told each of them that THEY were his favorite. Dale had a warm smile and an infectious laugh. Dale left a big hole in the hearts of his family, his community, and his friends. He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered.

To honor Dale’s memory, we invite his family and friends to attend a celebration of his life on Wednesday, January 4, 2023, at 10 a.m. in the chapel at Sun Valley Community Church 6101 S. River Dr. Tempe, AZ 85283. Please wear purple, in honor of his favorite team the Bulldogs. Reception to follow at Hilton Garden Inn 7290 S. Price Rd. Tempe, AZ 85283. Dale will be interred at Resthaven/Carr-Tenney Mortuary & Memorial Gardens. If desired, friends may make memorial contributions to Truman State University or Tempe Elementary School District in Dale’s name.