Cover photo for Dr. Dale Stansbury's Obituary
Dr. Dale Stansbury Profile Photo

Dr. Dale Stansbury

April 2, 1942 — September 21, 2023

Los Gatos, California

Dr. Dale Stansbury

Dr. Dale Lee Stansbury, aged 81, passed away peacefully on September 21, 2023, in Los Gatos, California, following a valiant 12-year battle with prostate cancer.

Born on April 2, 1942, in New Philadelphia, Ohio, Dale was the cherished son of Ray W. and Ruth (Cotterman) Stansbury. He embarked on his educational journey, graduating as the valedictorian of his class at Midvale High School in 1960. Not only was he a top student, but he also excelled in athletics, particularly in football and track and field, where he even earned a spot at the state track meet.

Dale's thirst for knowledge led him to Muskingum College, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. During his time at Muskingum, he not only excelled academically but also showcased his leadership skills as the captain of the football team, earning recognition as an all-conference athlete.

His academic pursuits continued at The Ohio State University, where he earned both a Master's and Ph.D. in Agriculture Economics. Dale began his career working as an Economist for the Federal Reserve in Dallas, Texas. Dale's expertise eventually led him to Washington D.C., where he served as the Head Economist for the Senate Agriculture Committee before relocating to Los Gatos in 1989.

In Los Gatos, Dale held significant positions, including Assistant Dean at UC Santa Cruz Extension and Director of Education Associates at NASA/Ames Research Center.

While his professional accomplishments were noteworthy, Dale was more than that. He was an accomplished chef who loved to entertain family and friends, often treating them to his famous fresh-squeezed orange juice. His passions extended to farming, fine wine, environmental conservation, sports, and reading. However, his greatest love was reserved for his family.

Dale is survived by his lifelong companion and love of 35 years, Nina Yamaguchi, as well as his three children: Brent (Maki) Stansbury, Michelle (Greg) Chandler, and Shannon (Brendhan) Dillon, all residing in Richmond, Virginia. He is also survived by step-sons Dr. Ken Yamaguchi of Emeryville, California, and Dr. Jon Yamaguchi of Honolulu, Hawaii.

His legacy lives on through his grandchildren: Ben and Abbie Chandler, Logan and Caleb Dillon, Max and Wes Yamaguchi.

He is also survived by his sister Rhonda (Frank) Leeper of New Philadelphia, Ohio, and brother Dirk (Carol) Stansbury of Shepherdstown, West Virginia, along with many adoring nieces and nephews.

Dale's dedication to the Ohio State Extension program remained unwavering throughout the years. He was a proud 10-year member of the Baltzley Valley 69'ers 4-H Club, actively participated in Jr. Leaders, and served on the Tuscarawas County Jr. Fair Board. In 1964, he had the honor of representing 4-H youth in Venezuela as an IFYE (International Farm Youth Exchange) delegate.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Dale's memory can be made to: 4-H Endowment Fund c/o OSU Extension 419 16th Street SW, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 11, 2023, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM in the Geib Family Center at New Philadelphia, Ohio.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Dr. Dale Stansbury, please visit our flower store.

Past Services

Celebration of Life

Saturday, November 11, 2023

1:00 - 3:00 pm (Eastern time)

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