John Mart Dale

John Mart Dale went to be with his heavenly Father on May 27. He passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family.

He was born in Wichita, Kansas, on Jan. 31, 1930, to Arnold and Ruth Dale.

He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Shirlene Dale, and three daughters and their husbands, Sheri (Marty) Bryan, Kim (Ricky) Mead, and Julie (Hank) Hodge; and seven grandchildren, Cayce Bryan, Emily Bryan, Katie Ann Bryan, Kevin Mead, David Mead, Conner Hodge, and Caitlyn Hodge.

John earned BS and MS degrees in chemistry from Wichita State University, graduating summa cum laude. After working as chief chemist for several years at Cessna Aircraft, he entered the graduate program at Iowa State, majoring in analytical chemistry.

He joined the Oak Ridge National Laboratory Analytical Chemistry Division in 1965 upon receiving his Ph.D. degree. The central theme in his research career was applied electro analytical chemistry. He had an affinity for truly tough research problems and was known for meticulous attention to detail, resulting in very high-quality research. He served as assistant group leader of the Analysis of Molten Salts Group, which conducted forefront research in the analysis of molten salts. His work generated many technical reports and publications. He was a member of the American Chemical Society.

He was a longtime member of First Baptist Church of Oak Ridge, where he served as deacon and member of the choir. He was a violinist in the Oak Ridge Community Orchestra for several years.

The family received friends Thursday May 30, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Weatherford Mortuary. A memorial service followed at 7 p.m. with Dr. Larry Dipboye officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Free Medical Clinic of Oak Ridge via their website (www.fmcor.org) or a charity of your choice.

An online guest book can be signed at www.weatherfordmortuary.com.