Dale Steele, a World War II veteran who recently passed away at the incredible age of 100, continued his unmatched legacy of service even after death, providing a life-saving liver donation to someone in need. His last unbelievable act of generosity has even surprised his family.
According to UNILAD, Dale, who hailed from Pierce, Nebraska, served at the end of the Second World War. He was deployed to France, Germany, Belgium, and Czechoslovakia, where he courageously sought out remnants of the German army. His final mission involved assisting concentration camp survivors in their return home. He was also promoted to staff sergeant and was deployed to Nuremberg during his time in the army.
Beyond his military service, Dale and his wife Doris were pillars of their local community for many years. They were known for opening their home, providing snacks and a welcoming social space where folks could gather and practice sports. They fostered a supportive environment for everyone around them.
‘A life of service that didn’t end at death’
Earlier this year, Dale sustained a head injury and was placed on life support. He passed away on February 26, and his liver was recovered at Nebraska Medical Center. The very next day, it was successfully transplanted, giving someone a new lease on life.
Kyle Herber, the president and CEO of Live On Nebraska, really hit the nail on the head when he said, “This is a story about a life of service that didn’t end at death. Mr. Steele lived a full century giving to others, and through organ donation, that generosity continues in a way that will impact lives for years to come.”
You might be thinking, “A 100-year-old donating an organ? How is that even possible?” Dale’s son, Roger Steele, expressed similar shock when Live On Nebraska contacted the family about the potential liver donation.
However, Dr. Lee Morrow from Live On Nebraska explained that age isn’t the crucial factor you might expect when it comes to liver transplants. The liver actually has an incredible ability to regenerate cells throughout life. Dr. Morrow put it simply, saying, “Your liver is about 3 years old, my liver is about 3 years old and that 100-year-old donor, his liver was about 3 years old.”
Roger also shared some insights into his father’s age and long and healthy life. He explained that Dale had a strong body that carried him through to his 100th birthday, attributing it to hard work. He said that people from his father’s generation didn’t really think about “exercise” like we do today; instead, they worked hard all day and were tired when they went to bed. Consistent physical effort was their exercise, and it served Dale well.
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