Obituary of Dale Thomas Kobi

We lost a legend, on August 18, 2023.  It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Dale Thomas Kobi.  Dale passed away peacefully at the Royal Alexandria Hospital in Edmonton surrounded by his immediate family.  Dale was predeceased by his wife of 50 years, Joy Kobi (Gridley) his mother Betty (Amyotte) Kobi, and Father Bill Kobi. 

Dale was born in Hanna Alberta on June 22, 1939. 

Dale touched the lives of many throughout his years. He spent most of his childhood and younger years in the Scollard, Big Valley and Donalda regions.  He later settled in the Stettler area.

Dale swept Joy off her feet, and they married on April 12, 1966, and were blessed with two children Janine Kobi and Kevin Kobi.  Later his Grand Daughter Kayla Kobi came along and his Great Grandson Braylen Kobi. 

Dale was an entrepreneur and had an ability to succeed in whatever task he tackled.  Dale had several trucking businesses and partnerships through out the years.  Dale crossed paths with many during his working days.  He began working taking whatever jobs he could from fencing, farming, breaking horses to road construction. 

Dale was drawn to the trucking industry and through out his years he successfully owned and operated a water hauling business, Cattle Hauling Business, Gravel Hauling Business, Grain and Fertilizer Hauling Business and a Round Bale Hauling business.

Dale loved the sport of rodeo from a young age.  He tried his hand at many of the events including Wild Horse Race, Bareback Riding, Saddle Bronc, Bull Riding, Calf and Team Roping.  Dale had won several Bull riding events throughout his riding career and his claim to fame in rodeo was being a competitor in the Bull Riding at the Calgary Stampede. 

Dale got into Chuckwagon racing in about 1980 and raced his wagon right up to the time of his passing.  He will always be remembered for his longevity and ability to continue competing in the sport he loved up until the age of 84 years.  He was not the average 84-year-old and anyone who witnessed him scale the back of the bleachers this year at the Ponoka Stampede would understand why I say this. 

Dale was also an active member of the community.  He was a long-time member of the Big Valley Elks, Linda Hall Men’s club, Stettler Agriculture society, Light Horse Club.  Dale also served on the board that handled rodeo insurance for years.  Dale was always a hard worker, great volunteer and organized several rodeo and race events throughout the years.

In his younger years Dale also enjoyed playing baseball and curling.

Dale was a father figure to many people.  Dale’s door was always open, and he always had the coffee on.  He would help anyone that needed a helping hand.  Dale will be remembered by his honesty, and integrity.  He truly stood by his word.  Dale was truly an inspiration to many; he will be greatly missed by all who knew him. 

Celebration of Dale’s life will held at the Stettler Community Hall on Monday September 18^th, 2023, at 2PM.   I know there are some good stories to tell, If you can think of a story we would love it if you could share it with everyone. 

Lunch and refreshments will be served following the service.

Donations can be made to a charity of your choice.