Music Professor William Dale Dies

William Henry Dale, a retired professor of music who taught at Whittier College for 30 years, has died after lengthy illness. He was 83.

Dale died Friday night at South Coast Medical Center in Laguna Beach, according to family friends. He had lived in San Juan Capistrano for the last 15 years after retiring from the college in 1975.

Dale, who became the music department’s chairman in 1969, taught classes on music theory and history, according to Orpha Ochse, a retired music professor from the college.

“He was a wonderful teacher,” Ochse said. “He organized the library of recorded music that the students used. In every way, he was just a fine colleague to work with, and a fine friend.”

Jerold Shepherd, a former music instructor at the college, said Dale was quiet, modest and talented.

Shepherd said Dale compiled a workbook on music theory but never sought to have it published.

Ruth Cruickshank, one of Dale’s former students in the 1960s, said he took a personal interest in each of his charges, urging them to explore their subject beyond the classroom.

“He made us think on our own,” said Cruickshank, who now teaches private piano lessons.

Dale is survived by his wife, Alta Dale. Private services will be July 26. The family suggests that any donations be sent to the music department at Whittier College.