Dale Jorgenson, 81, of rural Watford City, ND, passed away Sunday, November 5, 2017 at the Good Shepherd Nursing Home in Watford City. The Fulkerson Stevenson Funeral Home of Watford City is assisting the family.

Dale C. Jorgenson was born August 19, 1936 in Watford City, ND to Carl and Helen (Dodge) Jorgenson. He lived his early years on the Jorgenson ranch southeast of Watford City. Dale was educated in a country school through eighth grade and then went on to graduate from Watford City High School in 1956. While in high school, Dale was active in Golden Gloves Boxing, traveling from Canada to Minneapolis winning several championship bouts. He went on to Dickinson State College, where he competed in college rodeo as a member of the first Dickinson State Rodeo team.

Dale’s first NDRA championship came in 1957 where he won the Bareback Riding championship as well as the All Around Cowboy honors. Throughout the next 20 years he would excel in nearly all events; garnering championships in Bareback Riding, Saddle Bronc Riding, Bull Riding, Steer Wrestling and Team Roping. In addition to his years as a competitor, Dale served many terms of directorship on the North Dakota Rodeo Association and High School Association boards.

Dale married his high school sweetheart Barbara Thomas in 1958. They began their life together living and building a family in Watford City.
Dale and Barbara purchased their ranch in rural Watford City in 1963 where they make their home today. They raised a family there, hosted many aspiring rodeo cowboys for practice sessions and sometimes a roof over their head or a place to tell a few stories. There was always room for anyone who needed a place to stay.

One of Dale’s proudest moments was his induction to the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame in 2002. To be recognized by his peers was an honor unparalleled.

Dale was a member of the Badlands Saddle Club, North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame, North Dakota Rodeo Association, North Dakota High School Rodeo Association, McKenzie County Grazing Association, Montana Team Ropers Association, Wrangler Team Roping Championships, Fifty Years in the Saddle, and First Lutheran Church.

Dale is survived by his wife of 59 years Barbara Jorgenson; son, Tim (Sue) and their sons Shane and Clay; Son, Tom and his sons Chris (Brittany) and Seth, daughter Shelby; daughter, Joan and her daughter Samantha, her son Deagan.

Dale was preceded in death by his father, Carl Jorgenson; grandson, Josh Kitzmann; daughter-in-law, Teresa Rustad Jorgenson.

Memorial Contribution