Wade Arthur Dahlen passed away on September 23, 2021, with his family by his side. A small gathering
for Mass of Christian Burial was held. Interment will be held at Rock Creek Cemetery on June 25,
2022, at 10:00am. A luncheon will follow for family and friends at the Dahlen home.
Wade grew up in Robbinsdale, Minnesota, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in
Forest Resource Management from the University of Minnesota. He met the love of his life, Betty, at
the University and they married on October 13, 1962. They began life at Blue Mountain Ranger
District of the Malheur National F orest. After service in the military, he returned to the
Prairie City Ranger District as Forester and in 1966 was transferred to the Wallowa-Whitman
National Forest, Baker District as Post Sale Forester.
In 1969, he became an independent Sales Agent for Baker City Realty for Lyle Leager and in 1978, he
and Dave Still opened D & S Realty, Inc. as Brokers. In 1982, he went to Pioneer Federal Savings &
Loan Association as an Outside Sales Representative. He held various positions, from Loan Officer
to working in the Data Processing and Computer Technical Services for the Bank until retiring in
2007.
Wade had many interests during his lifetime and warned Betty that he might retire several times. He
enjoyed all aspects of living in Baker. The mountains and great people made it a wonderful place to
raise children. He was a fixer and enjoyed working in his shop. He supported his children in their
school activities, attending sporting events and theater performances at high school and college
levels. He loved trips to the Oregon Coast and going to the Hawaiian Islands. He was grateful to
reconnect with college friends and through the years, they enjoyed telling stories about camping
and skiing on their yearly trips. Wade had an infectious smile and was always willing to lend a
hand. He thoroughly loved spending time with family and his grandchildren. He was light-hearted
with a great sense of humor. He was thoughtful of others and always willing to put their needs
ahead of his own. He was meticulous in his work, firm in his beliefs, and committed to helping his
community.
Wade was a lifetime member of the Catholic Church and made many lifelong relationships over the
years. He belonged to the Knights of Columbus and helped in their many activities including the
East-West Shrine Game. He held many offices including Grand Knight. Wade supported Betty in
bringing awareness to Cancer Research through their involvement with Relay for Life and made
projects for the silent auction and annually donated over $1,000 in return can deposits.
Wade served on many community boards including Lions International as 3ʳᵈ Vice President and
Treasurer, St. Elizabeth Nursing Home Board of Trustees for 6 years and chairman of the Board for
the last 3 years, Secretaryffreasurer for the Baker County Home Builders Association and the City of
Baker Planning Commission from 1972- 1975.
Wade is survived by his wife Betty and children: Lisa (Mark) Ward of Baker City, OR., Tom (Melissa)
of Boise, ID., Eric (Desa) of Bonners Ferry, ID., Amanda (Quinn) Anderson of Baker City, OR.,
brothers; Bruce, Keith, Mark, Paul, and sister Diane. Wade has 17 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Charlotte and Marlyn. He was deeply loved.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society through Coles Tribute Center,
1950 Place Street, Baker City, Oregon 97814.
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