James R. Dale

James R. Dale, age 92, of Iron River, MI, passed away on Saturday, December 30, 2017 at the Iron County Medical Care Facility in Crystal Falls, Michigan. He was born May 2, 1925 in Detroit, MI, the son of the late Russell and Emma Belle (Lemieux) Dale. He attended and graduated from the Hillman High School, with the Class of 1943. He then went on to attend the Rhema Bible Training Center. James was a proud veteran of the United States Army Aircorps, having served as a Corporal, stationed in the Philippines during World War II. James married Jean Francisco on October 18, 1947 in Hillman, Michigan. The couple celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary in the fall of 2011, before Jean preceded him in death in July of 2012. During his career, he was employed as a Michigan State Police Officer and an Instructor of Law Enforcement at Gogebic Community College. Upon retirement, he heeded God’s call and became a Pastor, serving the Covenant Tabernacle Church in Crystal Falls and also teaching at the Mission Bible Training Center in Gaastra. He enjoyed reading the Bible, rock collecting, hunting and fishing. James is survived by his sons, John Dale of Oshkosh, WI, Jack Dale of Iron River, MI; daughter, Janus (Al) Galante of Iron River; seven grandchildren; one great grandson and one great granddaughter on the way.   In addition to his parents and wife, he was also preceded in death by two sons, Jay Samuel and James Dale II and a brother, Thomas Dale. Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 13, 2018 from 10:00 to 10:30 a.m. at the Mission Bible Training Center in Gaastra. Funeral services will follow at 10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to: Mission Bible Training Center, P.O. Box 248, Gaastra, MI 49927. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of James R. Dale, please visit our flower store.