Dale Austin McNutt

May 1, 1935 - February 17, 2010

Dale was born to Oscar and Grace McNutt in Dover, Ohio. He moved to Salem, Ore. after serving in the U.S. Air Force 1954-57. While in Oregon, he served in the Air Force Reserve and Army National Guard 1957-64. He worked a variety of jobs until he became a U.S. Postal Service employee where he was commended for 5 yrs without using any sick leave and retired in 1992 after 37 yrs. In retirement, he drove school bus in Salem for several years and did landscaping on the side. His love of sports and his many athletic granddaughters inspired him to be a fast pitch softball umpire for a number of years. Dale's hobbies included Bible study, avid reading, traveling, bowling, outdoor activities, watching horse races, sporting events and participating in many family gatherings. His true passion was his family. In 1958 Dale married Shirley W. Lang, who passed away in 2004. In 2006, he married Susan Ross Wheeler and between them they shared 6 children, Tanja and Wayne Smith, Shawn and Larry Polston, Louis and Josie McNutt, Matt Wheeler, Rebecca and Jud Simmons and Ruth Wheeler; 14 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren. He is survived by 2 sisters and 3 brothers. Dale and Susan served together at Living Hope Church where he enjoyed greeting people at the door each Sunday and taking care of church finances. After his wife Shirley died, he realized how important receiving cards was to him, so he watched for opportunities to send greeting, birthday, get well and Christmas cards to loved ones. Dale will be remembered for his huge smile and open arms ready to hug and love people unconditionally. He was a splendid husband, extraordinary father, grandfather and great grandfather. He will be greatly missed! A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 27 at 4 p.m. with Military Honors at Kingwood Bible Church, 1125 Elm St West Salem, 97304. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Oregon Chapter of the American Cancer Society or your favorite charity. www.restlawnfh.com