Dale LeRoy Softley

In Loving Memory of Dale LeRoy Softley
October 8, 1940 – August 22, 2025

Dale LeRoy Softley was born October 8th, 1940, to Dwight and Ruth (Reams) Softley. He passed away after being treated for several years for prostate cancer on August 22, 2025, in Lincoln Nebraska. He was 84 years old. He grew up on the farm just outside of Grant, Nebraska where he learned the love of nature and the value of hard work. He graduated from Perkins County high school where he made many lifelong friends. He was active in FFA as well as Rural Youth. Many Saturday nights were spent roller-skating and enjoying the freedom of the open road.

He briefly attended community college in Milford and later enrolled at The University of Nebraska, where his love of learning led to his passion of agriculture and science. While on East campus at UNL, Dale met the love of his life Kay Cook, and after a brief courtship, they became engaged and married on December 27, 1963, beginning a lifelong partnership filled with love, learning, and shared purpose.

He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agronomy in 1966 and later picked up a teaching endorsement. He balanced both teaching and farming for many years, and his love of agriculture eventually evolved into agricultural consulting. In 1978, Dale became a Certified Professional Agronomist and later ventured into forensic agronomy as co-owners of S-Arrow Consulting with Kay. Their work took them across the country and into unique areas of research — even leading to a feature in The Wall Street Journal in September 2005. Together, they combined their professional expertise with a love for photography, nature, and discovery.

Dale’s greatest pride was his family. He was a proud and devoted father to his children Judeen and BD, and a guiding presence in their lives. He always provided a willing ear to listen, sage advice, even into adulthood. This Joy was amplified with the addition of grandchildren, Syrah, Katie, Kierin and Grant. Grandpa Dale never missed an opportunity to spend time with the grandchildren to celebrate their accomplishments and to share with them the lessons of science and nature. Dale was known for impromptu science experiments with his grandchildren, turning everyday moments into learning opportunities.

A man of quiet service, Dale gave back to his community through church involvement, Lions Club, Ham radio, storm spotting, and Civil Air Patrol search and rescue. He was always ready to lend a hand to friends, family, and neighbors. His favorite attire — Levi 501 jeans, white work shirts, and boots — reflected his down-to-earth character. Nature was his sanctuary, and he found deep spiritual connection tending to his beehives, vegetable gardens, and vibrant Gladiolas and Zinnias.

Dale is preceded in death by his parents Dwight and Ruth Softley. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Kay Softley; daughter, Judeen and son-in-law Blair Andrews of Omaha; son, BD and daughter-in-law Laura Softley; Grandchildren Syrah and Kierin Andrews and Katie and Grant Softley; and brother and sister-in-law Don and Kay Softley of Grant NE, and cousin Bea Softley Peterson. Along with many cherished family and great friends.

A Celebration of Dale’s Life will be held at a later date. In honor of his service and values, donated glasses and hearing aids will be collected for the Lions Club. Memorial funds will support a prostate cancer education program for rural Nebraska men through the University of Nebraska Medical Center.

Dale’s legacy is one of quiet wisdom, unwavering dedication, and a profound love for family, science, and the natural world. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

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