James “Jim” Creath Dale, 88, was born August 11, 1937, in Red Bluff, California to Walter and Leila Dale. He passed away and returned home in the company of his loved ones May 20, 2026, at Discovery Village in Lewisville, Texas.
Jim attended grammar school in Paynes Creek and high school in Red Bluff where he graduated in 1955. After graduation, he joined the Navy where he served on a Destroyer Escort.
Following his service in the Navy, Jim went to work for the California Division of Forestry in 1960, where he worked until 1992. He worked in the Tehama Glenn and Lassen Modoc Ranger Units as a firefighter, then an engineer, fire captain a and b, dispatcher and finally an instructor at the Susanville Inmate Training Center.
Jim spent many years serving as lookout for wildfires in the Susanville, California area. During each of his appointments, Jim excelled through his second-to none ability to tirelessly listen, notice, and act- often when he was the only one being relied upon to do so (as on the lookout).
Jim lived a long life of service and dedication. He is well regarded by all who knew him, with many remarking “He is one of those real good men.” Indeed, Jim embodied a strength and quiet steadiness that others could rely on through times both good and hard. A man of few words, one always had the sense that Jim knew that what he did say had incredible heft and chose to speak with intention every time.
Jim taught by example, living a life worth admiring in his service to others, craftsmanship, and adherence to his values. Through it all, Jim was a pillar of wisdom and a beacon of good wit and humor. Jim was a talented musician who played both banjo and guitar, and an extremely prolific woodworker who could make nearly anything in his garage workshop. Family have wood pieces made by his hand that were lovingly rendered with names and crafted to pass the test of time.
Jim was also well known for his meticulous nature, frank honesty, and knowledge. His grandkids remember his encyclopedic mind for birds and the love he showed them wherever he went (his porch was never without bird seed!), along with his impeccable Jeopardy! prowess. Jim is remembered by his sons as an excellent father who shared his love of photography, music and hunting.
Jim and his wife Suzy moved in late life to Corinth, Texas to be closer to their grandchildren: Raviv and Reese. For many years they dedicated themselves to the art and effort of being involved and pivotal grandparents who are remembered as immensely influential in the lives of both grandchildren. In addition to being a family man of the highest caliber, Jim was a good neighbor and devoted steward.
Jim is preceded in death by his parents: Walter and Leila Dale, his first wife: Joan Dale (d. 1985), and his wife: Suzy Dale (d. 2025). Jim is survived by his children: Joshua (Mary) J. Dale, Jeremy (Jeannie) J. Dale, Darrell V. Lomonaco, Laura A. Lomonaco, Mark G. Lomonaco and his grandchildren: Raviv R. Kruger, Reese S. Lomonaco, Jacob Dale, Thomas (Tiffany) Dale, and Bryan (Kamilë) Dale.
There will be no formal funeral per Jim’s wishes. The family will be spreading his ashes in an intimate ceremony along with the ashes of his departed wife, Suzy Dale, at the location of their choosing.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his honor to one of the causes that were near to his heart. Please direct any donation to Wounded Warrior Project or St. Jude Children’s Hospital. Honor Jim when you lend a listening ear, measure the weight of your words, and craft the things of your heart with your hands.
