James Clarence Dale

James Clarence Dale, 85, of Decatur passed away suddenly Friday, Sept. 4, 2015, at Lakeland Hospital-Watervliet.

James was born Aug. 3, 1930, in Keeler Township, the son of the late Frank and Neca (Green) Dale. Also preceding him in passing were his wife, the former Hazel Morrison; and a son; James Clarence Dale Jr.

James is survived by two daughters, April Gauthier of Eau Claire and Susan Dale of Decatur; two sons, Kirk (Alice) Dale of Hartford and Allen (Debbie) Dale of Decatur; seven grandchildren: Brad, Howard, Tina, Travis, Bryant, Kirk and Erica; 21 great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; two sisters, Shirley Adams and Betty Duda, both of Kalamazoo; and two brothers, Virgil Dale of California and Fred Dale of Three Rivers.

James graduated from Hartford High School. He served his country proudly during the Korean War, in the U.S. Army as a military policeman. Two of his duties were being an escort for Bob Hope and Jane Russell. He was employed at Eliason Corp. for 38 years. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, and loved working with his hands doing carpentry work.

Per his wishes, cremation has taken place. There will be a graveside service at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, 2015, at Keeler Cemetery, with Pastor Efrain Maya officiating. Full military rites will be conducted by the North Berrien Military rites team. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations in James' honor be made to the American Lung Association or American Kidney Association. Those wishing to leave memorial condolences for the family may do so at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.