Dale Hoium (1945–2025)
The Aliveo Military Museum proudly honors the life and legacy of its founder, Dale Hoium, whose passion for preserving military history helped create a lasting educational resource for the Red Wing community.
Dale believed in the importance of remembering the past and sharing its stories with future generations. Through his dedication, vision, and countless hours of work, the Aliveo Military Museum opened its doors to the public on Memorial Day 2009.
More than a museum founder, Dale was an active member of the Red Wing community, a dedicated leader in the Civil Air Patrol, and a man whose commitment to education and historical preservation continues to inspire the museum’s mission today.
His legacy lives on through the artifacts, stories, and memories preserved within the museum he helped build.
A Life of Service
Dale Hoium made Red Wing his home in 1972 and became a familiar and respected member of the community through his work as the owner of Red Wing Optical.
His dedication to public service included serving on the Red Wing City Council from 1986 to 1993. He was also deeply involved in the Civil Air Patrol, where he attained the rank of Colonel and served as Minnesota Wing Commander.
Throughout his life, Dale demonstrated a commitment to leadership, community involvement, and preserving history. These values helped shape the vision that eventually became the Aliveo Military Museum.
The Founding of the Aliveo Military Museum
The Aliveo Military Museum began with the military memorabilia collections of Dale Hoium and his friend and fellow Civil Air Patrol member, Bruce Sexton.
Through Dale’s dedication and vision, the museum opened to the public on Memorial Day 2009 in downtown Red Wing. As word spread, individuals and families began donating treasured military artifacts, helping the collection grow into an educational resource for the community.
Dale devoted countless hours to the museum, serving as its curator, promoter, caretaker, and board leader. Establishing and developing the museum was among his proudest accomplishments.
Today, the museum continues to preserve military history and share the stories of those who served, carrying forward the legacy Dale helped create.
A Lasting Legacy
Dale Hoium’s legacy lives on through the Aliveo Military Museum and the many lives he touched throughout the Red Wing community.
His dedication to preserving military history created a place where visitors of all ages can learn about the past, discover the stories behind historical artifacts, and honor those who served.
As we continue the work Dale began, we remain grateful for his vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the museum.
With gratitude and remembrance, we honor Dale Hoium, founder of the Aliveo Military Museum.