Dale Gordon Maplethorpe died of a long illness on December 21, 2013 in his home, with his wife by his side. He was born on November 14, 1930 in Portland, Oregon to Carl Maplethorpe and Bessie Ann Burk. He was a lifelong resident of the St. John's area.
Dale had two older prothers, Elmer and Lloyd as well as a sister, Elsie Maplethorpe Crawford; they preceded him in death as well as his parents. Dale attended Old George, Portsmouth and James John grade schools and Roosevelt High School. At the age of 17 he enlisted in the Coast Guard and spent his enlistment out of Boston. In May of 1952 he met Shirley Worlein on a blind date and on August 30, 1952 they were married. They celebrteed their 61st Anniversary in August 2013. Dale retired in March of 1992 after more than 20 years as an inspector for the City of Portland. After retirement Dale and Shirley traveled from coast to coast of the United States, Canada from coast to coast, Mexico, United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. One of his favorite trips was with his brother, Lloyd, to the desert looking for Indian artifacts. He was a member of the Latter daySaints St. John's Ward and a lifetime member of Washington Lodge No. 46, AF & AM.
Dale and Shirley have seven children, five sons, Dale Jr., Daryl, Darren (Nolene), Dana (Sharon) all of Portland, David (Angie) of Hillsboro and two daughters, Denise Flick of Vancouver, Washington and Doreen Page of Clarkston, Washington. They have 16 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. Also surviving him is his sister, Carol Maplethorpe Cernac of Scappoose; brother-in-law, Douglas (Nancy) Worlein of Scappoose; sister-in-law, Jean Worlein of Stanwood, Washington; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
A remembrance gathering will be held at a later date. Private interment will be in Skyline Memorial Gardens.
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