Dale L. McDowell, 97 of Tangent passed away on February 8, 2026.

Dale was born at home on December 11, 1928 in Davis City, Iowa to Elsie (Burrell) & Everett McDowell, one of eight children. Dale moved his family to Oregon in 1953 and to Tangent in 1959, where he lived until his death.

Dale was a founding member of the fire department volunteer program, formed shorly after moving to Tangent. He was hired as the Fire Chief & served for 17 years until his retirement.

Dale's interests were hunting, fishing, gardening & camping, most often with his family. His passion was music. He played three instruments & sang. Friends & family would join in - good or bad everyone got their chance.

He will be remembered as a great dad, a caring kind, humorous & an asset to his community and beyond.

Dale is survived by daughter Annette & Doug Wright; son Terry and Kerry McDowell of Lebanon; daughter Debbie McDowell of Tangent; son Rodney McDowell and LaVaun of Corvallis. He was preceded in death by his wife Ella Jane and son Keith.

Dale has 10 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

Celebration of life will be held on February 28, 2026 from 2-5 p.m. at the Tangent Fire Hall. Any donatoins can be made to the Tangent Fire District.