Dale Rice, 87

Dale “Grubby” Curtis Rice, age 87, of Schoolcraft, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, Nov. 18th, 2019 with his loving wife Betty at his side.  He was born in Schoolcraft on Nov. 17th, 1932 the son of the late Freeland and Eva Mae (Hill) Rice and was raised by the late Ned and Bessie Jewell of Three Rivers at the age of four.

On May 4th, 1956 Dale was united in marriage to the love of his life Ms. Betty Lou (Mohney) Rice.  Dale was a Sargent in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict.  Upon returning from duty, Dale was employed by the St. Joseph County Sheriff Dept. and was co-owner of Wilburt Vault Company and worked for Joe Truckey Cement.

Dale was a faithful member of the Fabius Park Fire Department for forty years.  He was an Exalted Ruler of the Three Rivers Order of Elks Lodge #1248.  He was a member of the Wiley Koon American Legion Post and a life member of the Marcellus V.F.W. Post #4054.

Dale enjoyed antique tractors and was also a member of the St. Joe County Old Engine and Tractor and Kalamazoo County Tractor Club.  Dale was an avid collector of tractors and clocks.

He was preceded in death by three sisters, Ruby, Marion, and Frances and six brothers, Lorraine, Harry, Gerald, Freeland Jr., Richard and Boyd.

He leaves to cherish his loving memory, his wife Betty Lou Rice and many nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 21, 2019 at Hohner Funeral Home.
Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, November 22, 2019 at Hohner Funeral Home with Pastor Bob Anderson officiating.
Interment will be held following services at Schoolcraft Cemetery.

Memorials in Dale’s memory may be donated to the Fabius Park Fire Department or the Elks Crippled Children’s Fund.  Envelopes available at the funeral home.