Dale Smith

Dale Smith began his career in 1960 and held various positions in Scouting. Prior to coming to our council he was employed by the Hawkeye Area Council in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He served as Blackhawk Area Council program director from 1978 to 1988, as camp director at both Camp Lowden and Northwoods in 1979, and at Camp Lowden in 1980. He was instrumental in turning Camp Lowden around, not only in terms of program but from a facilities standpoint as well.

Dale was an Eagle Scout and a Vigil Honor member of the Order of the Arrow. Under his guidance the Order of the Arrow Section 3-A Golden Arrow Award was presented to Wulapeju Lodge 140 in 1982 for outstanding participation.

Bruce Small recalls,

Dale Smith was a wonderful man. He was a forthright, upstanding man who believed wholeheartedly in the Scouting movement. From my perspective, his encouragement and support gave me the strength to tackle the job of camp director. He was an incredible guiding light for me. He was always supportive, and he let me completely take the reins with only a gentle push in the right direction every now and then.

Most often he would help me learn how to manage the camp and make the necessary decisions by stating "Boy, I am glad I am not camp director and have to make that decision," when I would ask him what to do. While it was very frustrating and frightening at times, he forced me to learn to think and make decisions on my own. I will always be grateful to him for doing so.

After leaving our council Dale served as director of camping for the Great Trail Council, Akron, Ohio. Camp Lowden lost a good friend when Dale Smith passed away on December 28, 1995, following a long illness.