WILMINGTON — Dale’s soul has made its final journey to a peaceful world in which only he has the privilege of knowing on September 29, 2023.
Dale Fredric Nelson was born to Roy Nelson Sr. and Bernadette Beer Nelson on March 11, 1933, in Austin, MN.
Dale retired from the USAF Security Service after proudly serving 27 years. He liked to brag that he moved 19 times within those 28 years.
Upon retiring, he graduated from Southwest Texas State University with a bachelor’s degree in business. Dale was a real estate broker for 8 years and the station manager for Mobil/Exxon for 12 years. His final occupation was a business instructor at Career Point and Texas Careers.
Dale was married to the love of his life, Janet, for 66 beautiful years. Their greatest passion was to travel throughout the United States and to many different countries. They especially enjoyed visiting family and friends. When they were not traveling, they could often be found dancing together or teaching those around them a new step or two. They enjoyed hosting their annual Christmas party in San Antonio and playing card games with neighbors in Wilmington. Their favorite past time however was spending time with their children.
Dale enjoyed giving back to his community. In San Antonio he was the President of St Vincent DePaul Society at Prince of Peace Catholic Church as well part time office staff and an active member of the church festival committee for many years. In Wilmington he became a member of the Temporalities at St. Marks Catholic Church. He served on the board in Eastwood Village for 10 years, during which time he became a close friend to many. He also spent many hours with Janet working in the library at Winter Park Elementary School where they were loved by all.
His friends and neighbors will miss his delicious cookies, cakes and pies that he loved to bake to share with everyone. Dale was a great friend and a highlight in many people’s lives. He always made those around him laugh with his quick wit and endless humor. To his children he is and always will be their lifetime hero.
Dale is predeceased by his bride Janet, his parents and 4 siblings. He is survived by his daughter Michelle Finch and husband Howard, his son Michael Nelson, his daughter Monique Searls, and his beloved dog Franklin. April Mendenhall, Andrea Shaffer, Jeremy Nelson, Ronnie Keene, and Ali Keene will all dearly miss their grandfather. He leaves behind 10 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandson. Dale did it his way and his legacy will forever live within those that had the great fortune of knowing him.
A very special and heartfelt thank you to the Lower Cape Fear Lifecare for their love and support in the final chapter of Dale’s life.
His service will be held at Saint Mark Catholic Church on Wednesday, October 4, 2023, at noon. His family invites you to celebrate his life immediately following the service at his home.
In Lieu of flowers please donate to Lower Cape Fear Lifecare in Dale’s name.
