Dale Ham

Dale Ham

September 3, 1939 – June 10, 2026

Dale Ham, 86, beloved husband, father, grandfather, barber, veteran, and friend, passed away surrounded by the love of his family on June 10, 2026. He was born on September 3, 1939, in Bakersfield, California, to Frank and Velma Ham. He was welcomed into a family that included his half-brother, Kenneth Ham, and half-sister, Billie Robison.

At the age of three, Dale moved with his family from California to Kirkland, Texas. Two years later, at age five, the family settled on their farm and ranch near Bristol, Colorado, where Dale spent his formative years. He attended school in Bristol and Granada, graduating from Granada High School in 1958.

Shortly after graduation, Dale proudly enlisted in the United States Army, serving four years of active duty. Stationed at several missile sites in California, including San Pedro, he served as a Protector Missile Map Projection Specialist before later becoming a driver for General J.T. Hunnicut. Upon General Hunnicut's retirement, he gave Dale the opportunity to choose his next assignment. Dale chose to return to Colorado and was transferred to Fort Carson, where he completed his military service before returning home to help on the family farm and ranch.

Dale became a member of the Bristol Masonic Lodge in 1961, following in the footsteps of his father and brother. Later, after joining the Lamar Masonic Lodge, he was honored with his 60-year membership pin during a special celebration in Lamar.

With encouragement from his brother Kenny, Dale attended Barber School in Pueblo, Colorado, earning his barber license. In 1961, he began working with his brother at Parkview Barbershop in Rocky Ford. What began as a profession quickly became a lifelong passion. For more than 63 years, Dale faithfully served generations of customers from his shop at 911½ Railroad Avenue. He semi-retired on January 1, 2024, but continued cutting hair part-time from his home. Barbering brought him tremendous joy, and he treasured the friendships he formed through the years. Some families he served spanned five generations.

Dale met the love of his life, Diana, on a blind date arranged by his brother Kenny and one of Diana's coworkers. They were married on December 16, 1967, and shared a beautiful life together, celebrating 58 years of marriage in December 2025.

In addition to his dedication to his family and profession, Dale was a member of the American Legion Post in Rocky Ford and volunteered as an MVP volunteer. He was also a Volunteer Firefighter for many years. He loved fishing, enjoyed hunting when he was able, and thoroughly looked forward to traveling each year. His adventures took him throughout the United States, Europe, Canada, and Mexico. Family and friends meant everything to him, and he cherished every opportunity to spend time doing the things he loved with those he cared about most.

Dale was known for his quick wit and sometimes ornery nature, but beneath it all was a kind, lovable man who touched countless lives with his generosity, humor, and friendship.

Dale is survived by his loving wife, Diana Ham; his children, Don Glover-Ham of Washington State, Denise (Charlie) Swope of Pueblo, Colorado, and Dan Ham of Rocky Ford, Colorado; grandchildren, Cory Ham, Ty Ham, Klarissa Jaynes, Clayton Ham, Lindsey (Tim) Patterson, Haley Swope and Christa Swope; special nephews, Robert Pinkerton & family of California, and Kenneth C. Ham, Jr. & family of Colorado; niece, Pattie Pinkerton and her husband Charles of California; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends also survive. He is preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Velma Ham; his sister, Billie Robison, and her husband, Al Robison; his brother, Kenneth C. Ham; his daughter Dee; and his parents-in-laws, Floyd and Fern Bartley.

Cremation has taken place. Family, friends, and members of the community are invited to attend a memorial service to celebrate and honor Dale's life.

Graveside Service will be held at the Rocky Ford Cemetery, Thursday June 25th at 10:00 a.m. Dale deeply loved and cherished his community, and all who knew him are welcome to join in remembering the many lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the F.Y. Hauck Hose Co. Rocky Ford Fire Dept.; 300 S Main St.; Rocky Ford, CO 81067; scholarship funds or to the charitable organization of the donor's choice. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Online condolences may be made at www.PeacockFH.com. Perez & Peacock Funeral Home & Arkansas Valley Crematory is in charge of arrangements.