H. Dale Aske Obituary (1930 - 2014)

Henry Dale Aske, also known as H.D. Aske or fondly as "Dale" In early December, 2014, Dale passed away at University Medical Center in Tucson, AZ due to complications that resulted from a fall he sustained. Dale was being visited and comforted by his wife and other family members during the week he spent in the hospital, before he passed away. Dale was 84 years old. Dale Aske was born in a small Minnesota town in early December, 1930. He was the third and youngest child and only son of May Aske and Henry Truman Aske. As a youngster, Dale was doted on by his two older sisters who often treated him like their own living doll, dressing him and playing with him. He also enjoyed sports, reading and anything mechanical, such as cars and trains. Dale began his studies at a college near his hometown before joining the military in 1952. While in the military, he served in an artillery battalion in the 2nd Infantry Division in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. After nearly three years of active duty, he honorably discharged as a Sergeant with a Korean Service Medal, a Bronze Service Star, a National Defense Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal. While serving in the military, he acquired a hatred for canned green beans that lasted a lifetime! Once he returned home from active duty, he completed his college degree, earning a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. In the late 1950's, so he could play golf year-round, Dale moved west to Los Angeles, CA and began working for Hughes Aircraft as a Mechanical Engineer. He was proud of his work and continued working for Hughes throughout the duration of his career, more than thirty years. Not long after moving to Southern California, he met the love of his life, Barbara Clare Westenhaver. They were married in July, 1961. They both worked and established their careers before having their first son, Damon Dale Aske in May, 1968. Their second son, Brian Lee Aske was born in March, 1971. Dale was a proud and active father. He volunteered for his sons' soccer teams and scout troops. He was an encouraging dad who wanted nothing but the best for his sons and made sure they went to college. He was especially proud to become a grandfather in 1997 when his first grandson, Kevin was born and enjoyed his other grandson, Steven and two granddaughters, Ashlyn and Tristan. Dale was quite social and had several hobbies that kept him busy. Dale made friends and enjoyed many years as a member of the Palos Verdes Breakfast Club, an organization known for "No politics, no causes, just neighborly fellowship, fun and frolic!" Other hobbies included travel, fishing, photography, wood-working and last, but not least he was a VERY dedicated Green Bay Packers fan! He and Barbara also enjoyed frequent meals out with a group of Palos Verdes friends and neighbors. Dale was preceded in death by: his parents, May Aske and Henry Truman Aske, as well as his older sisters, Virginia (Ginny) and Elizabeth (Betty). Dale is survived by : Barbara Aske (wife), Damon Aske (son), Lisa Aske (daughter-in-law), Brian Aske (son); Tiffany Aske (daughter-in-law); Kevin Aske (grandson), Steven Aske (grandson); Ashlyn Aske (granddaughter) and Tristan Aske (granddaughter). Condolences may be posted to the family through www.vistosomemorialchapel.com