Obituary of Roger Dalen

Roger W. "Pat" Dalen of Cambridge passed away on Thursday, February 27, 2014, at the age of 91 at GracePointe Crossing Gables West. Roger was born on December 15, 1922, in Milan, MN, the son of Eddie and Pearl Dalen. He graduated from Milan High School in 1941, and spent four years in the U. S. Navy, where served in the Aleutians during World War II. . Following his Navy service he served with the Minnesota Air National Guard and was a "life-time" member of both the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars. While Pat was in the military and based in Berkeley, California he met his wife-to-be, Helen Thornton, who he married in 1946. During the years following military service, Pat was a former businessman in both Cambridge and Isanti at the "family-owned" grocery stores, until selling in 1971. As Isanti County Veteran's Service Officer for 36 years, Pat was an advocate for returning vets, several of whom credited him with saving their lives. He was also Civil Defense Director until his retirement in January 1985. Pat was a devoted, loving husband, dad, grandpa, great-grampy, father-in-law, uncle, brother-in-law and friend. His legacy is one of love, gentleness, kindness and humor. We are all better people for having Pat in our lives. Pat was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years Helen, his parents Eddie and Pearl Dalen and his brother Don Dalen. Missing him today are daughters Barb Kotzer (Ken) and Patti Dalen Leisinger (Gene), grandchildren Amy Kotzer, Mark Kotzer (Kate), Brittany Metzig (Charlie) and Blake Leisinger (Stephanie) and six great-grandchildren Gus, Henry and Asher Metzig; Bennett and Macaulay Kotzer and McKinley Leisinger. Also surviving is sister-in-law Dorothy Dalen of Cambridge as well as other relatives and friends. For sustaining help during Pat's illness, the family gives specials thanks to Dr. Allen Mork for years of outstanding care and friendship to Dad, Aimee and the other Guardian Angels as well as friends whose support allowed him to stay in his home these last years. He loved the cheer you shared through cards, calls, visits and outings. We are happy that Mom and Dad are together again.