Veteran Pastor Dale Van Meter Remembered: A Life of Service and Faith

Post Falls, Idaho, USA - Dale Joel Van Meter, a cherished member of the veteran community, passed away on June 27, 2025, at the Idaho State Veterans Home in Post Falls, Idaho. Born in Zillah, Washington, he lived a life rich in service and family, celebrated for his contributions not only as a soldier but also as a pastor and fruit grower.

Van Meter was born to Joel Emmett and Irma Joy (Woodell) Van Meter and graduated from Thayer High School after his education in Neosho County. Following this, he furthered his studies in Electrical Engineering at Kansas State University, after a stint at Neosho County Community College from 1946 to 1948. His journey took a noble turn when he was drafted into the U.S. Army, serving from April 1951 to August 1952. After returning from military duty, he completed his degree and dedicated himself to pastoral roles across several states, retiring in 1988.

A Life of Service

In retirement, Dale and his wife Iris took to running Van Meter Orchards, where they cultivated apples and sweet apple cider. His contributions extended beyond the orchard; Dale was a member of the Kansas Fruit Growers Association and volunteered as an EMT and firefighter. Known for his passion for aviation, he was also a licensed VFR pilot with over 250 hours of flight experience.

Dale and Iris, who married on June 11, 1960, were devoted partners, raising six children and welcoming foster children into their home. Iris, who passed away in 2021 after nearly 61 years of marriage, left behind a legacy of kindness and family that Dale cherished deeply. He is survived by six children—Kevin, Lauren, Elizabeth, Kristian, Kellene, and Alicia—along with 13 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. His family continues to honor the values he instilled in them.

A Honorable Recognition

Among the accolades Dale received during his lifetime was a Quilt of Valor, a distinction that honors veterans for their service. The ceremony took place at the Idaho State Veterans Home, where he was recognized for his contributions alongside fellow veterans, including Air Force veteran Herman Shoopman and others from various branches of the military. The Idaho Press reported that quilts awarded carry names, military branches, and medals on the backs, symbolizing gratitude for their sacrifices.

The Quilts of Valor Foundation, which has awarded over 400,000 quilts, aims to honor veterans and active-duty military members through handmade quilts. Each creation serves as a heartfelt thank-you for their service, which aligns beautifully with the ethos Dale embodied. This initiative continues to thrive, as detailed further on their official site.

Looking Ahead

Dale’s life journey leads to a farewell service planned for July 19, 2025, at the Neodesha Church of the Nazarene, with visitation occurring the day before from 5-7 p.m. at the Fredonia funeral home. Memorials are suggested for Kentucky Mountain Bible College, a place that shaped Dale’s religious commitment and educational pursuits.

As we reflect on Dale Joel Van Meter’s remarkable life, we celebrate not just his military service, but also his dedication to family and community. He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps. Remember, as the Quilts of Valor Foundation keeps the spirit of gratitude alive among veterans, Dale’s life embodied the very values they strive to honor.