Dale Francis Crigler

Dale Francis Crigler passed away surrounded by family at Mission Hospital in Asheville, NC, with complications of Parkinson’s Disease on Thursday, January 5, 2023. He was a simple man of deep faith expressed in his life through actions more than words. He had a very kind heart and was full of grace and forgiveness. He was hard working, steadfast, dependable, and devoted to his family.

Dale is preceded in death by his wife, Barbara, brother Norris, and daughter Cathy. Surviving Dale is his sister-in-law Beverly, nephews Dave, Dan, and Tim; children Patty (Jeff), Allison (Paul), Julie, and Ray (Kerry); grandchildren Kristen (John), Nicole (Chris), Erica (Andrew), Christine (Stephen), and Melissa (Tyler); and great-grandchildren Jessica, Sarah, Michael, Caroline, Catherine, Paxton, Elaina, Riley, Asher, and Milo.

Although Dale did not have his own biological children, he was a wonderful man who was a good father to all his stepchildren. He loved spending time with all the grand and great-grandchildren - even via video calls once he got used to the idea. Most of the grandchildren had their first ice cream with “Papa Dale” as it was his favorite and he always shared.

He loved living in the Beaverdam community in Watauga County, where he resided for nearly 40 years. He enjoyed keeping the yard mowed and was determined to stay ahead of fast-growing grass and chopping wood to prepare for the cold weather! He loved the farm and the many dogs and cats who were part of the family over the years.

He enjoyed his truck driver work, which allowed him to travel all over the country. He won awards for fuel and mileage efficiency - saving the company money. Even at home, he loved finding ways to save money, and his driving shortcuts became infamous. Dale was an expert on cars, planes, and all kinds of mechanical things. He loved to tinker and fix things, and teach others how to make repairs. With a spirit of adventure, he enjoyed his first trip to Iceland at age 80! He became a West Ham supporter and enjoyed watching games with “the lads.” Nascar and Formula One racing were other hobbies.

The family extends special thanks to the dedicated medical professionals at AcuPT, Advent Health, Advent Home Health, Advent Hospital, Digestive Health Partners, Four Seasons Home Health, Hendersonville Cardiology, Mission Heart Tower, Select PT Lymphedema Clinic, and Solace Hospice for the care he received over the last several years. His home caregivers have been a blessing to Dale and to the family and brought joy with them every time they arrived.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, March 20, 2023, at All Saints Anglican Church, with Father Erich Zwingert officiating. The family looks forward to greeting friends at the reception after the service in the church Parish Hall.

AllSaintsMillsRiver.org           15 McDowell Road, Mills River, NC 28759

In lieu of flowers, the family graciously asks that you consider making a donation to:

Parkinson’s Foundation 200 SE 1st Street Suite 800 Miami, FL 33131 http://parkinson.org/

or

Parkinson Voice Project 646 N Coit Road Suite 2250 Richardson, TX  75080 www.parkinsonvoiceproject.org

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