You are using an outdated browser that is no longer suitable for modern web standards.
Please update (or change) your browser to view our site as it is intended to be seen. Thank you.
Dale Delane Sayler
1950 - 2020
Dale Sayler's biggest passion was Falconry. He was the second falconer born and raised in North Dakota, Morley Nelson being the first. Dale was instrumental in getting Falconry legalized in North Dakota, in 1973. He travelled to Bismarck from West Fargo multiple times to testify in front of the legislature to advocate for legalization of falconry in North Dakota.
Dale was known to fly and hunt with both long wings and other raptors. He monitored Prairie Falcon eyries as well as Ferruginous hawk nests for years. He shared data with the North Dakota Game and Fish department for years. He was instrumental in starting a artificial eyrie program in the North Dakota Badlands which did not have suitable nest sites. Dale would host falconers from afar to try to catch trophy White tailed Jack rabbits near his home. He was a dear friend to all, lending and giving his falconry library to all interested apprentice falconers.
His favorite falconry story was the 1974 NAFA meet, hawking with his friends John Noble and Jeff Crawford, where John's Prairie Falcon won the last competitive NAFA meet. Dale and Jeff helped flush the 6 pheasants taken in a single flight. Dale swore more were taken but could not be found in the heavy cattails.
Dale was the ultimate family man. He and his wife Mary opened their home to troubled children for many years. They had 4 children and 2 adopted children. Dale is survived by his wife Mary, 6 children, and two brothers, Jerry and Duane.
Dale loved all of the outdoors and wildlife. He was involved for years with the Fargo North Dakota Zoo. He kept many pets from bobcats to squirrels. He was a passionate hunter of big game especially deer and bear.
Dale had the kindest heart, his time was treasured by many as a Father, Husband, Brother, Friend, and Falconer. We miss you!
