Earl Dale Wasson, formerly of Saline County

Earl Dale Wasson, 79, of Springfield, Missouri, passed away peacefully from natural causes with his wife, daughter and son by his side at 10:54 p.m. on March 9, 2021.

Dale was born Feb. 4, 1942, to Thurman and Vera Baker Wasson in Eldorado. He grew up in southern Illinois and was the youngest of 11 children.

After graduating from Harrisburg High School, Dale went on to Southern Illinois University, where he earned his bachelor's degree, then Oklahoma State University, where he received both his master's degree and doctorate. As a professor, Dale taught economics, spending the final 36 years of his career at Missouri State University, retiring in 2005 as the head of the Economics Department.

After retiring, Dale loved spending time with his family and friends, traveling with his wife of almost 55 years, and spoiling his two granddaughters. As a teacher and as a man, he impacted countless lives for the better, leaving behind numerous lessons and funny stories that will be remembered fondly by many for years to come. He will be truly missed.

Dale was preceded in death by his father, Thurman; his mother, Vera; and siblings Norman, Kathryn McGee, Judy Brown, Ruth McGill, Thurman Jr., George, John and Sue Wasson.

Dale is survived by his wife, Lynn; his children, Julie and Jeff; daughter-in-law Amy; granddaughters, Hannah and Grace; his brother, Jerry; sister, Jane Hancock; and many nieces and nephews, who fondly called him Uncle E. Dale. He treasured family greatly and loved spending time at family reunions over the years.

No services are scheduled at this time; a memorial will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to the Dale and Lynn Wasson Award for Excellence in Economics at Missouri State University, care of the MSU Foundation, 300 S. Jefferson Ave. Suite 100, Springfield, Missouri 65806; or to a charity of your choice.