Former county commissioner Dale Lauman dies

Former Flathead County Commissioner Dale Lauman, who was well-known not only for extensive community service that spanned decades but also for his statesmanship, kindness and compassion, died Wednesday. He was 80.

Lauman served as county commissioner from 2007 to 2012. During his tenure the historic county courthouse underwent a $2.7 million restoration.

“Dale did not have an enemy in the world,” said former Flathead County Commissioner Gary Hall, who served with Lauman for several years. “He was a true statesman who took pride in his office and position, and did an amazing job thinking out each of the issues and exploring them.

“He treated everyone with respect,” even those who may have been upset with a particular commission decision, Hall recalled. “He was a delight to be around, and one of the nicest men I’ve known.”

Hall said Lauman served the county well, even during the tough economic times of the yearslong recession that began around 2008.

“He worked to build up reserves and make sure we were one of the healthiest counties in the state,” Hall added.

Lauman grew up in Somers in the 1940s and ’50s. His Norwegian grandfather moved to the Flathead Valley in 1900, and his father worked in the Somers railroad tie plant.

Lauman worked for the U.S. Postal Service for 30 years, from 1963 until he retired in 1992. He was postmaster in Bigfork for the last 19 years of his postal service career.

In addition to his postmaster duties, he served as a regional training manager, helping to install new post offices and train personnel. He also spent 14 months in Washington, D.C., as temporary national manager for the training program, overseeing a multimillion-dollar budget.

When Lauman threw his hat in the ring as a Republican candidate for Flathead County commissioner in 2006, his quiet, friendly demeanor stood out among his opponents. His style was an obvious contrast to more flamboyant candidates.

“I took a pledge not to attack my opponent,” Lauman told the Daily Inter Lake in 2006 shortly before the election he won. “I wanted to conduct a clean campaign that focuses on my ideas, goals and qualifications, and I think I’ve done that.”

Lauman was diagnosed with non-Hodgkins Stage II lymphoma in October 2009 and underwent chemotherapy treatments. He weathered the rigors of the cancer in the public eye, losing 46 pounds and his hair, but nevertheless retaining his upbeat attitude.

Although he missed a few commissioner sessions because of the cancer treatments, he kept working and attended most major meetings.

Mary Pat Murphy, a longtime friend of the Laumans, pointed out the scope of Dale’s contributions to the community “can’t be over-emphasized.

“He was an amazing part of the Somers-Lakeside community, and Kalispell,” Murphy said. “The list of things they’ve been a part of is very daunting.”

Cremation has taken place. A memorial service is planned for January. The date will be announced later.