Dale Betlach, 95, formerly of BP

Dale Betlach, 95, of Brookings, South Dakota passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 16, 2021, at the Avera Flandreau Hospital. 
There will be no local services, with a private family service planned for a future date.  Eidsness Funeral Home is assisting the Betlach family with arrangements.  Instructions on sending memorial donations and condolences may be found following this obituary.  Condolences may also be left online at www.eidsnessfuneralhome.com by signing the virtual guestbook.
Dale Jerome Betlach was born on April 10, 1926, to Amil and Martha (Moravic) Betlach in Blooming Prairie Township, Minnesota. Dale spent his youth in Blooming Prairie, graduating from Blooming Prairie High School in 1944.
In 1945, Dale enlisted in the United States Army, honorably serving his country until 1947. Shortly following his discharge, Dale met his future wife Betty Conklin at a dance in Blooming Prairie. The couple was united in marriage on Aug. 20, 1949, in Trout Lake, Wash. Dale and Betty continued dancing together for 72 years.
Throughout a majority of their marriage, Dale and Betty lived on the Betlach family farm, a centennial farm located in Blooming Prairie. Dale and Betty successfully farmed the land there until they moved to Brookings following health issues in 2020.
Dale and Betty were well known throughout the Blooming Prairie area for their farmer’s market fresh produce and homemade sauerkraut. Throughout his life Dale held many different interests including refinishing furniture, attending auctions, and collecting antique meat grinders. Dale enjoyed visiting with his many friends and neighbors who will remember how much he loved to laugh (at a good story).
He was a warm-hearted man who was extremely proud of his family heritage. His vast knowledge of his Czech ancestors allowed his family to learn about their past and become actively engaged in the Betlach family’s history.
Dale is survived by his wife, Betty, of Brookings S.D.; sons: Douglas (Sandra) of Mount Dora, Fla. and Larry (Melanie) of Brookings S.D.; four grandchildren: Libby Minter of Bismarck, N.D., Alex Betlach of Brookings, S.D., Kilian (Macy Parker) Oakland, Calif., and Matthew (Kirsten) San Antonio, Texas; seven great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents and sisters: Charlotte Betlach and Elaine Skalicky.
Memorials may be directed to the Czech (Bohemian) National Cemetery or a charity of your choice.
The Czech (Bohemian) National Cemetery
Attention: Robert Starman, Secretary11150 54th Ave SE Blooming Prairie, MN 55917 
Condolences may be sent to:The Family of Dale Betlach2015 Olwien Street Brookings, S.D. 57006
Dale’s family would like to extend a special note of gratitude to the staff of Riverview Healthcare Center and the Avera Flandreau Hospital for the exceptional care that Dale received while in their care.