Dale Leroy Hardesty

Dale Leroy Hardesty was born on April 25, 1944, in Canby, Minnesota, one of six children born to Max and Hazel (Pittsenberger) Hardesty. He spent his early childhood in Canby until the age of six when his family relocated to a farm nestled between Eagle Bend and Parkers Prairie. He attended school in Parkers Prairie before beginning his working life at his sister and brother-in-law’s bakery, an early step that seeded his lifelong work ethic.

In 1965, Dale met Shirley Dreger through a mutual friend, and their relationship blossomed quickly. They were married on October 2, 1966, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church north of Lake Miltona. Together, they built a life grounded in love and perseverance. Moving first to St. Paul, Dale worked as a baker, and they later moved to Little Falls. There, Dale transitioned to construction work and driving gravel trucks. During their time in Little Falls, their son Scott was born in 1966, bringing joy to the family. In the 1970s, the family relocated to Alexandria, Minnesota. It was during this time Dale began working at Wayne Lee Construction, furthering his skills and reputation in the construction industry. His dedication and expertise eventually led him to purchase a portion of the business and establish his own construction company, which he successfully operated for 20 years until a heart attack ultimately forced his retirement from active work.

Dale and Shirley faced an immense tragedy in 1979 due to an accident resulting with the untimely death of their son, Scott. This devastating event deeply changed both Dale and Shirley; a loss that profoundly affected their lives. However, their lives were also touched by hope and blessing in 1981 when they welcomed their daughter Jodi. She was a miracle and bright light in Dale and Shirley’s life. They cherished Jodi deeply and often valued her guidance above all else, always ready to support and be there for her whenever she needed.

Dale was immensely proud of his daughter Jodi, celebrating her achievements with great joy. A testament to his love and a promise kept from his own past, he gifted Jodi a black Corvette upon her high school graduation—a symbol of his enduring support and pride.

Dale’s personal interests reflected a man of quiet strength. He had a particular fondness for tractors, even restoring several, and enjoyed outdoor pursuits such as deer hunting. Known for his quiet demeanor and resilience, Dale approached his many health challenges without complaint, consistently reassuring those around him with a simple “I’m fine.” His fondness for sweets was well known among family and friends, especially his love for Orange Circus Peanuts candy and strawberry ice cream. Dale’s affection extended to his beloved little Yorkie companions, Mocha and Coco, whom he cared for tenderly.

Dale’s life will be remembered not only for his professional achievements and resilience but also for the deep love he showed his family.

Dale Leroy Hardesty passed away on March 18, 2026, at St. Cloud Hospital at 81 years old. He is survived by his devoted wife, Shirley; daughter, Jodi Hardesty; brother, Kevin Hardesty; sister, Jeanne (Brian) Johnson; and many nieces and nephews. Dale is preceded in death by his parents; son, Scott; and sisters, Lee-Ann, Judy, and Dawn.

A Funeral Service will be held at 1:00 PM on Friday, March 27th, 2026, at Anderson Funeral Home with visitation one hour prior to the service. Interment will be at Kinkead Cemetery.