Darrel Walter Dale's Obituary
With our hearts full of love and gratitude, we honor and remember the life of Darrel Walter Dale, a beloved son, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle.
Darrel was born on May 4, 1939, in Howard, South Dakota, to Walter S. Dale and Alvina I. Tryggastad. His childhood was marked by the warmth of family, the values of hard work and humility, and the rich Norwegian heritage that would remain dear to him throughout his life. In the 1940s, the Dale family moved to Washington State, where Darrel grew up, attended school, and spent his high-school years doing what he loved most…standing on the pitcher’s mound, throwing baseballs with strength and confidence.
Darrel began his professional life selling insurance, but his hands and his heart were meant for building. He later became a builder and contractor, crafting homes that carried his signature care, precision, and creativity. His work drew national attention; featured in Better Homes and Gardens and Family Circle magazines, a testament not only to his skill but to the passion he poured into his craft. His expertise took him across oceans, even to Turkey, where he was sent by American Plywood to teach others how to build townhomes. His legacy of workmanship lives on in the walls, beams, and spaces where families now create their own memories.
Family holidays were some of Darrel’s greatest joys. He cherished gatherings filled with Norwegian foods like lefse and lutefisk and of course, plenty of laughter. He treasured every moment spent with loved ones. He found delight in horse races and cheering for his favorite teams, the Mariners and the Seahawks, but above all, his greatest love was for Jesus and for his family.
Darrel’s love extended to his large and blessed family. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Shirley Rohde and Omer Dale and is survived by his brother, Larry Dale. He was a proud father to his children:
· Michelle Hair, married to Mike Johnson
· Michael (Mike) Dale, married to Michele
· Carrie Macklin (Dale), married to Shawn
He was also blessed with 6 grandchildren and 4 great-grandsons, each one carrying a piece of his spirit forward into generations to come. Darrel also held a special place in his heart for his many nephews and his niece, embracing them with the same kindness and encouragement he offered all.
As we say farewell for now, we rest in the promise of Scripture:
“Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your Lord.” — Matthew 25:23
Until we meet again in eternal glory, may we carry Darrel’s legacy by loving deeply, working with purpose, laughing often, and trusting wholeheartedly in Jesus.
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