Dale Betlach, 95, of Brookings, passed away on Tuesday, November 16, 2021, at the Avera Flandreau Hospital.  There will be no local services, with a private family service planned for a future date.  Eidsness Funeral Home is assisting the Betlach family with arrangements.  Instructions on sending memorials donations and condolences may be found at the bottom of this obituary.

Dale Jerome Betlach was born on April 10, 1926, to Amil and Martha (Moravic) Betlach in Blooming Prairie Township, Minnesota. Dale spent his youth in Blooming Prairie, graduating from Blooming Prairie High School in 1944. In 1945, Dale enlisted in the United States Army, honorably serving his country until 1947. Shortly following his discharge, Dale met his future wife Betty Conklin at a dance in Blooming Prairie. The couple was united in marriage on August 20, 1949, in Trout Lake, WA. Dale and Betty continued dancing together for 72 years.

Throughout a majority of their marriage, Dale and Betty lived on the Betlach family farm, a centennial farm located in Blooming Prairie. Dale and Betty successfully farmed the land there until they moved to Brookings following health issues in 2020.

Dale and Betty were well known throughout the Blooming Prairie area for their farmer's market fresh produce and homemade sauerkraut. Throughout his life Dale held many different interests including refinishing furniture, attending auctions, and collecting antique meat grinders. Dale enjoyed visiting with his many friends and neighbors who will remember how much he loved to laugh (at a good story).

He was a warm-hearted man who was extremely proud of his family heritage. His vast knowledge of his Czech ancestors allowed his family to learn about their past and become actively engaged in the Betlach family's history.

Dale is survived by his wife, Betty, of Brookings SD, sons Douglas (Sandra) of Mount Dora, FL and Larry (Melanie) of Brookings SD, four grandchildren Libby Minter of Bismarck ND, Alex Betlach of Brookings SD, Kilian (Macy Parker) Oakland CA and Matthew (Kirsten) San Antonio TX, seven great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Charlotte Betlach and Elaine Skalicky.

Memorials may be directed to the Czech (Bohemian) National Cemetery or a charity of your choice.
The Czech (Bohemian) National Cemetery Attention: Robert Starman Secretary
11150 54 ^th Ave SE
Blooming Prairie MN 55917

Condolences may be sent to:
The Family of Dale Betlach
2015 Olwien Street
Brooking SD 57006

Dale's family would like to extend a special note of gratitude to the staff of Riverview Healthcare Center and the Avera Flandreau Hospital for the exceptional care that Dale received while in their care.