Dale Frank Nielsen

Dale Frank Nielsen, aged 88, of Bartlesville, Oklahoma, passed away on November 6, 2025. Born on June 1, 1937, in Manilla, Iowa, he demonstrated an exceptional commitment to his faith and community throughout his remarkable life.

Dale devoted 40 years of his life to serving as a minister at the Presbyterian Church in Skiatook, Oklahoma. His dedication extended beyond his retirement; he remained fervently involved in officiating marriages, funerals, and baptisms, as well as making hospital visits and contributing to the Kairos Prison Ministry. Dale's spiritual guidance and compassion touched countless lives, reflecting his profound commitment to helping others.

He graduated as Valedictorian from Manilla High School before going on to attend Dubuque Theological Seminary, where he earned a Bachelor’s of Divinity and was ordained in 1962 by the Presbytery of Western Iowa. His educational journey laid the foundation for a life that combined faith and service, shaping the man he would become.

On August 10, 1958, Dale married Eleanorr Joyce Walters in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa. They established their home in Elkader, Iowa, before relocating to Skiatook, Oklahoma, on June 15, 1962, and later moving to Bartlesville. After Eleanorr’s passing, Dale continued to cherish her memory while embracing the joys of family life.

Dale was a passionate advocate for youth and community service. He served as a scoutmaster for the Cub Scouts and a swim instructor for the American Red Cross, instilling values of teamwork and resilience in the young people he mentored. He played a significant role in initiating the wrestling program at Skiatook High School, leaving a lasting impact on the school’s athletic culture.

Beyond his ministerial and community engagement, Dale had a zest for music and is remembered for his singing talents. He participated in several singing groups, including the church choir and the church barber shop quartet, and was a cherished member of the local singing group, the Ad Lids, where he sang bass. His love for music intertwined beautifully with his passion for family gatherings, where the warmth of togetherness and song filled their lives.

Aviation was another of Dale's great passions; he obtained his pilot license and played an integral part in the establishment of the Skiatook Airport. This love for flying was a testament to his adventurous spirit and desire to explore the world around him.

Dale leaves behind his sons Eric Nielsen, Hans Nielsen and his fiancé Sharon Smith, and John Nielsen; sisters Carol Maloy and Loraine McCoy; seven grandchildren: Dominique Nielsen, Victoria Nielsen, Timothy Nielsen and wife Kayla (Solis) Nielsen, Brittany Nielsen, Brooke Nielsen, Victoria (Nielsen) Gribbon and husband Michael Gribbon, Brandi Nielsen, three great-grandchildren: Kathryn Klein, Christian Nielsen, Eliza Gribbon, and several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife Eleanorr Joyce (Walters) Nielsen, his parents Svend Enevold Nielsen and Hazel Hope (Hunkler) Nielsen, daughter-in-law Rebecca (Mosal) Nielsen, and sister Dorothy Alden. Honorable mention goes to Caroline Burleson and Tracy James.

Dale Frank Nielsen was a man of faith, family, and service, whose legacy will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him. His vibrant spirit, unwavering dedication to others, and love for life will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by his family and the communities he served.

Heartfelt gratitude goes out to the wonderful men and women of Compassus Hospice, and Caregivers of Bartlesville for taking such great care of Dale in his final time.

Dale requested that in lieu of flowers donations be made to Skiatook Presbyterian Church.