Dale A. Benzel, age 62, passed away Wednesday, April 8, 2009 at his home near Hot Springs, SD.

Dale was born October 31, 1946 to Edward and Vivian Benzel in Hardin, MT. When he was six, the family relocated to Hot Springs where Dale grew up on the family farm near Angostura. He attended Coleman Country School and Hot Springs High School. He was active in 4-H and church.

In 1965 he enlisted in the South Dakota National Guard and was honorably discharged in 1973. In May of 1972 he married Jane Stanley , his wife of 36 years. To this union they were blessed with three children. Dale was the manager of the Hot Springs American Legion. Although Dale had many different jobs throughout his life, he was only truly happy when working with his cattle.

Survivors include his wife, Jane; son, Todd Benzel of Hot Springs; daughters, Amanda (Jason) Kasten of Potter, NE; Kim Benzel stationed at Ft. Gordon, GA; two grandchildren, MaryKasten and Joshua Kasten; mother, Vivian Benzel of Hot Springs; brothers, Jerry (Charlene) Benzel of Union Grove, WI; Ken (Deb) Benzel of Butler, Indiana; sisters, Kathy (Gary) Lindley of Gering, NE; Sharon Schwartz of Oconomowoc, WI; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorial services will be 11:00 a.m., Monday, April 13, 2009 at the Bethesda Lutheran Church in Hot Springs with Pastor Jake Jacobson officiating.

A memorial has been established in Dale's name to benefit the Bethesda Lutheran Church; Nebraska Children's Home and the 4-H Foundation. Contributions can be made to Jane Benzel; 27494 Horse Camp Road, Hot Springs, SD 57747.

Arrangements have been placed in the care of McColley's Chapel of the Hills in Hot Springs. Written condolences can be made at www.mccolleyschapels.com.