Dale Elmquist

Dale Elmquist, 81, of Atlantic, died Friday, May 17, 2024, at Atlantic Specialty Care in Atlantic.

Dale Elvin was born to Elvin Oscar and Robina Nora (Nelson) Elmquist, June 14, 1942, in Cass County, Iowa.  He was raised on the farm to work hard and play hard.  After graduating from Atlantic High School in 1961, he worked in maintenance for Lloyd and Meredith for about two decades before starting with Atlantic Municipal Utilities in the mid-1980’s.   He retired from AMU at age 62.   His favorite saying was, “I’m a jack of all trades but master of none.”  Dale married Sharon Kay Cary amidst the snowstorm of December 8, 1963, in Griswold, Iowa.

Dale’s interests mainly included fishing, fishing with friends, local pond fishing and cooking fish!   He kept a small boat in the back of his truck so when the opportunity presented itself, he wasted no time.  He was a cracker jack at frying fish and onion rings!  Later in life, he loved teaching their son, Keith, grandkids and great grandchildren how to catch fish and spent lots of time enjoying it with them over the years.   

When he did not have a pole in his hands, he bowled in leagues from 1967-1982; during that stint, he could be found at Hawkeye Bowl or Super Bowl four nights a week.  Deer and pheasant hunting were also on his list of fun!   He and Sharon could be found tearing up many a country dance floor in Cass County and surrounding areas, as well.

First on his list was loving and leading his family.  Time with Sharon and their extended family was golden.  He gently passed on to them ideals of taking care of each other, working hard and enjoying it all through life while making the most of breaks and play time!

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Sharon; their son, Keith (Joanie) Elmquist of Dallas Center, Iowa; grandchildren, Josh (Lindy) Elmquist and their children, Elaina and Dominic of Grimes, Iowa, `Jake (Maria) Elmquist and their daughter, Maya of Waterloo, Iowa, and Adam and (Morgan) Elmquist and their children, Kurtis and Alice of Johnston, Iowa; his brother, Don (Julie) Elmquist of Albuquerque, New Mexico; many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends; and the fish that are glad that he’s moved on to that great fishing hole in the sky!

Preceding Dale in death were his parents, Elvin and Robina and his brother and sister-in-law, Edward and Lyla Elmquist.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Visitation will be held from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, June 1^st at the Atlantic Elks Lodge No. 445. A private family burial will be held at the Atlantic Cemetery with Pastor Colt Doherty of the First Church of Christ presiding over the committal.

Memorials may be made to the family for later designation to the Atlantic Elks Lodge No. 445 and First Church of Christ in Atlantic. 

Roland Funeral Service is caring for Dale’s family and his arrangements.   Condolences may be left at www.rolandfuneralservice.com.