A Celebration of Dale Hemphill’s Life

Relatives and friends gathered Saturday afternoon at the Unity Church of Bellevue to pay last respects to Dale Hemphill. Dale, a BBRC member since February 1996, died Monday, September 1, after a lengthy illness.

His family participated in an extraordinary outpouring of their love for this man. At the outset of the service, they gathered on the platform at the front of the church and gave first-person remembrances of their father, father-in-law and grandfather. Providing a strong showing of faith and resolve, Hellen Hemphill orchestrated her family’s goodbye. Dale’s 97-year-old mother was also a part of this display of love and affection. A showing of pictures of Dale’s life followed, with members of the audience chiming in with memories of him.

When Dale and Hellen married in 1978, the marriage brought together seven children into one family – four of Dale’s and three of Hellen’s. The couple have 18 grandchildren.

About 30 members of the BBRC attended the service, with comments made by Dick Clarke, Jeff Cashman and Kim Shrader.

Chuck Barnes, Rotary Foundation Committee Chair offered the services of his committee to gather donations as a memorial to Dale Hemphill. Dale’s family asked that memorials be made to the Rotary Foundation, which Dale heartily supported. Members wishing to contribute can do so by writing a check made out to the “Rotary Foundation,” noting Dale’s name on the check and making sure your name also appears. As Chuck explained, members will get Paul Harris credit for their donation, as well as help build a fine memorial to Dale. Checks may also be sent by mail to BBRC, PO Box 3003, Bellevue, WA 98009-3003; or you may give them to the Cashier or directly to Chuck Barnes.