Dale Thomas Harper passed away May 1, 2026, in Oakdale, CA. at 94 years of age.

He was born on February 15, 1932 in Toledo, Ohio. He was the son of Alma and Albert Harper. Dale was married to Virginia Clay for over 60 years. She preceded him in death.

He is survived by sons Jim (Becky) Harper of Jacksonville, Illinois and Jeff Harper of Redwood City, California, granddaughters, Jennifer Lane and Jana Poorman, both from Indiana.

Dale served in the United States Navy in the early 1950’s. He worked for United Airlines for over 30 years, first as a mechanic and then becoming a jet engineer instructor traveling to the Pacific Rim from Singapore, Tokyo and Manila.

Dale was active in Oakdale’s food bank, Community Sharing for 20 years. During his retirement years Dale loved to write and edit a newsletter for United Airlines retired employees. He was an incredibly capable man who could build almost anything. He will be missed by family and friends.

Remembrances can be made to Oakdale Community Sharing, P.O. Box 1160, Oakdale, CA 95361.

The Oakdale (Calif.) Leader

The Riverbank (Calif.) News

May 13, 2026