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ESCANABA -- Dale P. Stannard, 74, of Escanaba, passed away peacefully following a lingering illness on Saturday, September 12, 2026 at his home surrounded by his loved ones.
He was born on June 28, 1952 in Chicago, IL, son of Jerome Cecil Stannard and Lois Mae (Newman) Larson. Dale was raised in Escanaba and graduated from Escanaba High School, classof 1970. He honorably served as an U.S. Army Ranger during Vietnam from 1971 until 1979. During his years of military service, he served with dedication and distinction, earning several medals, awards, and honors in recognition of his service and commitment to his country.
On October 23, 1982, Dale married the former Linda Olson and were blessed with nearly 44 years of marriage.
Dale worked for Holy Cross Cemetery for several years and then was employed with Niagara Logistics as a semi driver for eight years. He returned to Holy Cross Cemetery as sexton, retiringin July of 2017 after 20+ years of employment. He took great pride in his years as a sexton of the cemetery, where he was known not only for his dedication and hard work, but also for the kindness and compassion he showed to everyone he encountered.
Music was a special part of his life. He shared his love of music as a keyboard player and vocalist, performing with several bands such as Riot Squad, Porridge, Trax, Home Sweet, Diamonds and Gold, and Bounty Hunter over the years. He enjoyed the friendships, memories, and joy that came from making music with others and continued performing for as long as his health allowed.
Dale found joy in the simple things in life and especially cherished the time spent with family. He enjoyed coin collecting, hunting, sports, researching ancestry, and spending time with his children and grandchildren. Christmas was his favorite holiday and favorite time of year, and he looked forward to the traditions, gatherings, and spirit of the season.
He was also known for his playful sense of humor and took great joy in picking on and teasingthe people he loved. Those who knew him best understood that his teasing was his way of showing affection and making others smile.
At home, he treasured the peaceful sanctuary they created in their own backyard, spending time on the deck and enjoying the beauty and tranquility of their pond. These quiet moments, surrounded by the people and things he loved, were among his greatest pleasures.
He was a member of the Eagles Club, American Legion, and DAV.
Among survivors include his wife, Linda Stannard; his mother, Lois Mae Larson; children, Richard Stannard, Amber (David) Downey, Diane (Ronald) Messenger, and Thomas (Emily) Stannard; grandchildren, Cassidi, Brayden, Riley, Ashlynn, Klaire, Tyler, Krislynn, Karisa, Nicholas, Aubrey, Jake, Cole, Kaide, Lincoln, and Lilah; two great grandchildren, Nolan and Jordan; siblings, James (Andrea) Larson, Mike (Kathy) Stannard, and Julie (Glenn) Beauchamp; sisters-in-law, Michele (Chuck) VanSkyhawk and Penny LaForest; brother-in-law, Raymond (Laura) LaFond; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, Jerome (Nancy) Stannard; step father, Donald Larson; grandson, Bryan Kwarciany; sister, Melissa Stannard; and grandparents and great grandparents including Florence Newman, Angeline Matthews, and Inga Larson.
A celebration of Dale's life will take place on Friday, October 30th from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Escanaba Eagles, 608 Ludington St., Escanaba.
Messages of condolence may be directed to the family by visiting www.crawfordfuneralhomes.net The family has entrusted Crawford Funeral Homes with the arrangements and care of their loved one.
