Dale Eugene Shaner of North Platte, Nebraska departed this life on December 2, 2020 at Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, Nebraska.
Dale was born on May 22, 1926 to Ross D. and Hazel (Houser) Shaner in Maxwell, Nebraska. He was the middle child, having an older brother, Don, and a younger brother, Ken.
Dale graduated from Lincoln County Rural School District 135 in 1940 and attended trade school in Curtis, Nebraska. He was engaged in farming, southwest of Maxwell and drove a semi-truck for Al Johnson.
He enlisted in the United States Navy in July 1944, attained the rank of Third-Class SV-6 and served in the Atlantic and Pacific fronts to help secure Okinawa. Dale was honorably discharged in June 1946.
Dale married Margaret May Houghtelling on December 20, 1946. Six children were born to this union. Margaret went home to our Heavenly Father on October 30, 1975.
In 1970, Dale started his career at Ft. McPherson National Cemetery as groundskeeper. He was presented several awards for his mechanical innovations including an easier way to set and remove headstones. Dale took much pride in the cemetery and was rewarded by being promoted to the Director of Fort McPherson National Cemetery. Dale retired from Fort McPherson in March 1990.
Dale entered into marriage with Betty L. Fitch on February 18, 1978 adding an extended family of eight children.
He was a lifelong member of the American Legion, VFW and DAV, Chapter 3.
Dale enjoyed camping and fishing with family members. He told many stories from his fishing trips to Canada. He loved life and kept a positive attitude even through his last illness. Many family members are benefactors of Dale’s woodworking skills. He made several cradles, cabinets, shelves, and other pieces of furniture which will be enjoyed for many years to come.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Margaret; brothers, Don & Ken, sister-in-law, Shirley Shaner; stepdaughter, Carolyn Bryant; stepson, Larry DeMilt; sons-in-law, Ron Fisher and Eland Mumm.
Dale is survived by his wife of 42 years, Betty; four sons, Paul of Wellfleet, NE, Roger (Rhonda) of Lexington, NE, Lyle (Nancy) of La Crosse, WI, Larry (Donna) of Des Moines, IA; two daughters, Linda Fisher of Jefferson City, MO, Donna Meyers of Arnold, NE; six step daughters, Ann McCants of Lincoln, NE, Shelia (Kevin) Feeney of North Platte, NE, Sandy Kelly of Plattsmouth, NE, Cheri (Jon) Bodeman of North Platte, Beth (Alan) Gray and Janice Mumm both of Ceresco, NE; niece, Kim (Jack) McKenna of Brady, NE; many grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Cremation was chosen and a Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date. Visitation for family will be held noon-5:00 p.m., Friday, December 4, 2020 at Adams & Swanson Funeral Home in North Platte, Nebraska, which is in charge of arrangements.