Dale E. Buckendahl

Dale Buckendahl passed away peacefully in his Somerset, NJ home on February 15, 2024, at the age of 93.
He was born on July 4th, 1930, in Pierce, Nebraska, to Otto Buckendahl and Rose Hilgert (Buckendahl). Dale graduated from Scottsbluff High School in 1948. Following graduation, Dale enlisted in the United States Navy where he was trained as an electronics technician. He then served on the USS Franklin D Roosevelt in fleet maintenance of air, surface, and fire control radar during the Korean War from 1948 to 1952. Upon completing his military service, he pursued higher education at the University of Colorado, earning two bachelor's degrees in business and physics.
Dale had a distinguished career as an aeronautical engineer and researcher at Martin Marietta (Denver), Ball Aerospace, and NASA Ames Research Center. He played a significant role in groundbreaking projects such as the Viking 1 and Viking 2 Mars Landers, contributing to publications on the potential existence of life on Mars. His innovative spirit shone through as he helped design the research animal holding facility and biohazard work station for space labs, ensuring the well-being of animals in space including squirrel monkeys and rats. During this time, he also mentored numerous young engineers who speak fondly of their interactions with him. It was during his time at NASA that Dale met his beloved wife and life partner, Patricia Patterson (Buckendahl).
In 1994, Dale and Patricia moved to Absecon, New Jersey, where they spent a decade before settling in Somerset. Dale's commitment to family was unwavering, and he cherished moments spent outdoors, particularly enjoying camping trips from coast to coast in their RV.
Dale is preceded in death by his daughter, Kristina Buckendahl-Anders and son Todd Matthew Buckendahl. He is survived by his daughter Shante Pagel, stepsons Michael Thad Allen, Timothy John Allen and wife Luetta, Robert Harold Allen and wife Marla, as well as eleven grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held at 10 AM, March 2 at Christ Episcopal Church, 5 Paterson Street, New Brunswick NJ, to celebrate Dale's life, recognize his contributions to science, his dedication to family, and the lasting impact he leaves on those who knew and loved him.
Contributions in lieu of flowers may be made to ASGSR.org/steam