Dale O Zabriskie

There was an uncommon greatness in Dale O Zabriskie—an easy confidence and quiet strength that drew people in, made them trust him, respect him, and walk away better for having known him.

Dale O Zabriskie was born April 27, 1935, in Provo, Utah, at his grandparents’ home, to LaVera Lublin Zabriskie and George Olin Zabriskie. With no scale available, a 10-pound bag of flour was used to approximate his weight.

Dale suffered a massive stroke shortly after a sweet visit with his wife. He died a day and a half later on March 14, peacefully graduating to the other side.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his brother Ken; his sister Marion Lamb; his son Michael; and his grandson Sven Oakeson.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Miriam; his daughters Melanie Carmack (Curt), Michele Zabriskie (Gordon Oakeson), and Marsha Z. Elmore (Steve); nine grandchildren—Meller, Adam, Sam, Nick, and Annie Carmack; Ben and Ali Eggli, Sarah Johnson, and Eliza Hill; and five great-grandchildren—Madeline and Amelia Carmack, Tucker Johnson, Serenity Hill, and Amari Eggli Walbeck. Along with his sister Nancy Pearson and brother Dave Phillips and nieces and nephews.

Writing came naturally. In sixth grade, he won an essay prize. A bit deflated after a mix-up, he received a “girls’ watch” instead of the bike he had hoped for. His sister bought him the bike with her own money, and he gave her the watch.

He attended South High School, serving as sports editor for the school paper, furthering his writing talents. He worked at the Deseret News before his mission, where he first met Miriam Barker.

During his mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Argentina, he helped open the Chile mission as one of the first four missionaries. He also wrote to Miriam, asking if she was not already engaged or married, if she would write to him. Thankfully, she wrote back!

Once home, they were quickly engaged and married September 12, 1958, in the Salt Lake Temple, beginning a life defined by faith, devotion, humor, and love.

He graduated from the University of Utah with a journalism degree. He was a communication and media icon, respected for his judgment, insight, and influence.

Dale built a distinguished career, working for Hercules, Senator Frank Moss, and Mountain Fuel. At Mountain Fuel, he hosted the Gaslight Theater—a role he initially resisted but came to enjoy.

He started Zabriskie and Associates, the first independent public relations firm in Utah. For his work, he received numerous local, regional, and national awards and honors, including the Silver Anvil, the highest award of the Public Relations Society of America. He was named a PRSA Fellow and received the Silver Medal from the Utah Ad Federation. He held leadership roles at the local, regional, and national levels in public relations, advertising, and broadcasting organizations. He taught political science and communication classes at the U of U and SLCC.

Governors for more than 50 years turned to him, appointing him to positions throughout the state and community, including the Utah Board of Regents, SUU Institutional Council, and many others. He served on the Salt Lake Chamber, United Way, and Utah Symphony boards.

A faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he held many callings and especially cherished his time as Bishop of a student ward.

He was also honored to serve as a Captain in the Air National Guard.

His greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted husband and present father who made each child feel important. Even with a full and busy life, he showed up—again and again—for his children and grandchildren, always active and supportive.

To his grandchildren, he became known as “Poppy.” He had a knack for capturing who they were, beautifully expressing their unique personalities in personal poems written for their baptisms. He also shared meaningful “mini-messages,” brief reflections filled with his faith and insight. Utah football with family was a favorite tradition… Go Utes!

Dale was a great man. He will be remembered for his faith, humility, service, and enduring love. He was a steady and familiar presence—a fixture in the lives of so many. His warmth and kindness reached everyone he met, from strangers to longtime friends. Even in difficult negotiations or complex situations, he approached every challenge with integrity and respect, always valuing the relationships and the people involved. Dale loved his family deeply. He lived with hope and kindness toward others.

Visitation -'Friends may call Friday, April 24th from 6:00–8:00 p.m. at the Bonneville Ward

1535 E Bonneview Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84105.

Funeral Services

Saturday, April 25th at 11:00 a.m.

Bonneville Ward

A Linger Longer will follow immediately after the service for friends to mingle.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a charity of your choice.

Dale Zabriskie Slideshow:

https://www.kudoboard.com/boards/iKKFb0Bs/slideshow⁠