Dale Richard Smith
February 14, 1933 - November 18, 2018
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Dale Richard Smith
February 14, 1933 - November 18, 2018
Obituary
Dale R. Smith, 85, passed away at Hospice House in Bellingham on November 18, 2018 after a brief battle with cancer. He was born to Richard and Henrietta Smith in Bellingham, WA. After growing up in and around Whatcom County in foster care, he graduated in 1951 from Meridian High School and then joined the U.S. Navy shortly after graduation. While stationed in Japan during the Korean Conflict, he was shocked to have found both of his brothers also stationed nearby.
It was toward the end of his service that he met the love of his life, Peggy. After just two dates they began their 62 year marriage on June 23, 1956. Dale eventually found a career he enjoyed and provided for his family as a truck driver. He worked for Edmonds Auto Freight for many years until an industrial accident ended his career.
Dale was always enthusiastic about new technology. Whether it was the first ever calculator in the late 60’s or the first microwave in the 70’s, he was always excited to try the latest thing. When Commodore began selling desktop computers he was right there MS DOSsing with the best. How many 85 year-old Grandpas do you know that Messenger their Grandkids from their iPad? He loved learning new things.
Dale was predeceased by his parents, his sister Donna Noll, and both of his brothers Dan and Darold Smith. Those who will continue to carry on his legacy include his wife of 62 years, Peggy Smith, daughters Sherry (Kenny) Walrath and Brenda (Ron) Bowles. He is also survived by the greatest lights of his life, his Grandsons Kyle and Cory Bowles. Work hard… words to live by. The world has lost a wonderful soul. A private family gathering will take place.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Whatcom Hospice House (2901 Squalicum Parkway Bellingham, WA 98225).
8 responses to Dale Richard Smith
Sherry Walrath says:
November 18, 2018
Like I said before dad, I won’t say good-bye, only that I will see you again. There will always be a hole in my heart until that time that I get to hug you again. Love you dad.
Brenda Bowles says:
November 18, 2018
They say, with time, our hearts will mend. ‘They’ don’t know how much you are loved. I promise to spend the rest of my days honoring your memory Dad.
Libby Allen says:
November 18, 2018
Dale was like a father to me in my early teens. I will always remember you with love and a special place in my heart. And our epic gin rummy battles! My love and condolences to the whole family in your time of sorrow.
Gordon Smith says:
November 18, 2018
I will miss my cousin Dale a lot. The things we did togeather, like riding down Alabama Hill in Dannys Model A on bald tires. Dale told him to stop and the 2 of us walked home. to the time we were all out at Acme for a family dinner and the guys hooked a bomb to dannys car and then told him he had to move his car. When the bomb went off it scared danny so bad that he jumped out of the car and ran. A good laugh was had by all. There was many other times that we all got togeather until Dale went into the service. Yes I will miss my cousin, may he rest in peace. Cousin Gordon
Tom Edwards says:
November 18, 2018
I am saddened to lose Dale. He was a special part of the community and will be missed. I send my thoughts and condolences to Peggy and his family. Tom Edwards