Dale Lynn McCormick

Dale Lynn McCormick was suddenly called to heaven on June 7, 2024. He was reunited with his bride of 68 years, "Mae", who preceded him in death December 27, 2023.

Dale was born August 9, 1934 to the late John Vittitow & DeEsta Gladys McCormick in Delta, Utah. He was the oldest of four brothers who shared a strong bond. 

Dale spent his childhood primarily in the Hailey, Idaho area. He attended the Wood River High School, home of the Wolverines, where he played football, basketball and baseball; his extreme athleticism was honored. 

He met the love of his life, Mae, through his good friend Bud - immediate attraction! They wed August 7, 1955. They began their married life working on a Dude Ranch in Montana - Dale as a fishing trip guide and Mae as the kitchen assistant & baker - fresh pies made daily. Their next adventure followed with employment at the Sun Valley Resort in Ketchum, Idaho. Dale in the Dutchin Room as a kitchen assistant and Mae in the Soda Fountain serving ice cream delights.

 Dale and Mae began their family in the Spring of 1957 welcoming their daughter Julie and their son Todd in 1958. They relocated to Sandpoint, Idaho in 1967 joining his parents and brothers’, Larry and Gordon, families to become longtime residents.

Dale and his brothers formed McCormick Brothers Construction in 1969. They began their legacy of premier craftsmenship, with Condo Del Sol being one of their many, many accomplishments in Bonner County. As time progressed Dale was also employed by Panco, Duane Hagadone & Pucci Construction companies. He was a larger than life presence "on the job" and made lifelong friends over a cold beverage and a few laughs! 

Dale's passion for music and playing guitar was very near and dear to his heart. In the 1960s he played classical style at Sun Valley Resort in the dining room and jazz guitar with the "Jim Limes & the Holiday Four" band. They carried the Ketchum night life at he Slavey's Club for many years. In Sandpoint he played with "The Variations" band, primarily performing at the Hayden Lake Country Club and The Elks Club. He also played with the Swing Street Big Band at the Huckleberry Festival in Montana and numerous other yearly events locally. He shared his knowledge of music with all ages and especially enjoyed teaching his students - family and friends alike. 

One of Dale's other most enjoyed passions was building gliders and flying them. He did this both in Sun Valley and Sandpoint. Anytime he was flying brought great pleasure to his soul. He also built model gliders as well and he attended the competitive meets in Canada with his good friend Dick Mettler. Definitely brought lots of good times! 

The love of the outdoors was very evident whether hunting or fishing for the lunker on Lake Pend Oreille or in Alaska. Dale also loved hunting morel mushrooms and picking huckleberries. After retirement, he found joy in gardening and sharing the bountiful harvest with friends and family.

Dale was an incredible father to his family who respected and loved him immensely. He became a grandfather aka: "Papa" to his grandchildren and great grandchildren. His smile radiated whenever they were near and especially if he could share his treats "of all kinds" with them. 

Dale is survived by children Julie Knox (Rick Moseley), son Todd (Michelle), grandchildren Michelle Blumenberg (Fred), Brandon Bell, Megan McCormick (Amanda), Shelby McCormick (Lisa), great grandchildren Trey, Ellie, Skylar and Daisy Blumenberg; Charles, Milina, Bobbie Jo, Naomi Bell. Brother Gordon McCormick (Sharon), numerous nieces and nephews and Sister-in-law Sue Piva (Gary). Preceded in death by brothers Vernon "Skip" and Larry McCormick (Derrell). 

Friends and family are invited to a memorial service in Dale’s honor, to be held on July 6, 2024, at 11 AM at Coffelt Funeral Chapel.