Ernest Dale Dobereiner

Ernest Dale Dobereiner Jr., affectionately known as Dale to his friends and family, was a beacon of kindness and selflessness whose gentle spirit uplifted all who knew him. Born on August 14, 1948, in the welcoming town of Moline, Dale's journey through life was one marked by dedication, love, and an unwavering commitment to service. On April 2, 2024, Dale's story on this earth came to a peaceful close in the warm embrace of Austin, surrounded by the love of his family.
Dale's life was a testament to the power of education and personal growth. His academic pursuits took him from the halls of Armstrong State College in Savannah, Georgia, to the classrooms of Williamsburg Technical College in Kingstree, South Carolina. His thirst for knowledge and excellence propelled him through the rigors of the Advanced Non-Commissioned Officers Academy at Ft. Benning, Georgia, and the Basic Non-Commissioned Officers Course in Hohenfels, Germany. He further honed his military expertise at the Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle Master Gunner Course and the US Army Non-Commissioned Officers Academy III Corps at Ft. Hood, Texas.
Dale's illustrious military career was adorned with accolades, including the US Army Commendations Medal with 5 Oak Leaf Clusters and a Letter of Commendation & Certificate of Achievement for his performance in support of Desert Storm. His dedication to excellence was further evidenced by the nine Certificates of Achievement he received, each a symbol of his relentless pursuit of greatness and service to his nation.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dale's heart was truly at home with his beloved family. He shared a profound and enduring love with his wife, Nipa Dobereiner, and embraced the joys of being a stepfather to Sally and Danilo Bigornia, and Angela and Paul Brezinski. His grandchildren-Micheal, Kalani, Keoni, Gabriel, Madison, Sophia, and Raymond-were the lights of his life, each a sparkling reflection of his kindness and spirit.
Dale's siblings-Kathleen and Glenn Stafford, Sally and Harry Blackwell, Jerry and Susan Lee, Randy and Christine Kinkade, and Gary and Jan Kinkade-knew him as a brother who was always there to lend a supportive hand or a listening ear. Though his parents, Ernest Dobereiner Sr., Orphy T. Kinkade, and stepfather Richard Kinkade, preceded him in passing, the legacy of love and strength they instilled in Dale continued to shine brightly through his actions.
When Dale wasn't sharing his wisdom or engaging in heartfelt conversations, he could be found indulging in his passions. A sports enthusiast, he relished watching games, discussing the ins and outs of each play with family, and instilling the values of teamwork and perseverance. His dogs were his faithful companions, and together they enjoyed countless hours of play and companionship. Dale also found solace and joy in the tranquility of fishing, a pastime that allowed him to connect with nature and the simpler pleasures of life.
Dale's character was the epitome of what it means to be kind, gentle, and selfless. His life was a motivational speech in action, teaching us that the measure of a person is not found in their accolades, but in the warmth of their heart and the depth of their character. Dale's legacy is not just in the medals he earned or the challenges he overcame, but in the lives he touched, the smiles he created, and the love he shared.
Today, as we reflect on the remarkable life of Ernest Dale Dobereiner Jr., let us carry forward the torch of his spirit. Let us live inspired by his example, committed to kindness, gentleness, and selflessness in our own lives. Dale's journey may have reached its sunset, but the light he cast upon this world continues to shine, guiding us toward becoming the best versions of ourselves and leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those he cherished.
A Memorial Gathering will be held on Friday, April 12, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Harrell Funeral Home 4435 Frontier Trail Austin, TX 78745. A Memorial Service will begin at 6:00 p.m.