Lambda Chi Alpha - Oregon State University

Page 7 Aaron N. Thomas '59-716 Aaron passed away on April 26, 2024, at his home in Corvallis. Born on November 7, 1937 in Arkansas, Aaron grew up in Weed, California. He excelled in playing high school football and earned All-State honors. He then attended Oregon State University, becoming a member of Lambda Chi Alpha and starring for the Beavers as a Tight End. Selected by the San Francisco 49ers in the fourth round of the 1961 NFL Draft and traded to the New York Giants in 1962, he became one of the franchise's most dependable playmakers. Over 11 seasons playing for the NY Giants, Aaron recorded 254 receptions, 4,253 yards and 35 touchdowns. He was recently honored as one of the top 100 NY Giants all-time greats. After retiring from pro-football in 1970, Aaron launched his second career as a stockbroker in Los Angeles. He later moved his family to Yreka, co-owning a restaurant & bowling alley. In the early 1980s he returned to football as head coach at Klamath Falls High School. Later, he served as assistant director of OSU's Beaver Club until 1989. His legacy lives on through son Robb Thomas - one of Oregon State's all-time leading receivers and a 10-year NFL veteran - saying his father was "an early version of Travis Kelce…with great route- running and feel for open space." A L P H A L A M B DA R E M E M B E R S "Chef" Dale Reynolds '05-1627 'Chef' Dale Reynolds was born March 15, 1951, in Portland, Oregon, and passed away on July 18, 2024, at his home in Brownsville, Oregon. Chef Dale was a proud member of the Lambda Chi fraternity at OSU. Serving as a Chef for more than a decade, undergraduate Brothers invited him to be an Honorary Initiate, marking his deep connection and significant contributions to the brotherhood. Known affectionately as "Chef Dale," he not only earned a nickname but also underscored his passion and talent for the culinary arts, which enriched the social and communal life at Lambda Chi. Through his culinary contributions and warm spirit, he helped foster lasting bonds within the fraternity and left an indelible mark on those who knew him. Chef Dale enjoyed a fishing trip off the Oregon Coast in May 2024 with brothers Benjy Kamph '95-1440, Trevor Vollintine '96- 1464, Andy Smusz '96-1466, Captain Gordy Webster '96-1467, Casey Goodale '96-1469, and Josh May '95-1448. Blake C. McKinney '91-1336 Born on February 28, 1967, in The Dalles, Oregon, Blake was raised on the McKinney Ranch alongside his siblings. He graduated from Sherman High School, paving the way for his future academic pursuits. Blake attended Oregon State University, where he majored in Communications. He was actively involved in the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity, forging lifelong friendships and creating memorable college experiences. After graduating from OSU, he launched a successful career in the events industry, working in both Oregon and Wisconsin. Later, Blake transitioned to real estate, establishing himself as a successful realtor. Celebrated as a loving father to three children—Baylor, Turner, and Emersen— and cherished his role as a family man. Known for his adventurous spirit: he enjoyed exploring new places, and prioritized staying active with regular workouts. Remembered for his warmth, generosity, and ability to bring people together, qualities that left a lasting impression on family, friends, and community members. After a courageous battle with ALS, Blake passed away on February 18, 2025, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and dedication that continues to inspire those who knew him. W e appreciate the 61 years of service provided by our 1964 chapter house, which has been home more than 1,600 brothers. Our new chapter house will be industrial quality and sustainably built to last longer then our prior chapter houses. CHEF DALE'S MESSAGE TO THE AΛ OF ΛXA BROTHERHOOD ALONG WITH HIS GIFT TO BUILDING FOR OUR SECOND CENTURY: "I have always wanted to be part of the team. This is my first chance to give back for my time with the boys. I've always wanted to be part of the solution and be part of the team. I never got the chance when I was young. My parents that raised me were monsters after they adopted me. So, when I first came to Lambda Chi, I just wanted to fit in. This is my way of thanking all who accepted me and let me be part of something bigger than myself.' 1015 NW MONROE • 61 years of service, 1964 to present. • Home to two-thirds of all AΛ of ΛXA brothers! • Home to 1,600+ men over six decades. 1ST CHAPTER HOUSE 25TH & MONROE • 42 years of service, 1922-1964. • AΛ had no permanent home from 1917-22. Alpha Lambda House History

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