Dale Lee Anderson, 93, of Stevensville, Montana, passed away peacefully on June 6, 2025, surrounded by his beloved family.
Born in Buhl, Idaho, on September 13, 1931, Dale was the youngest of seven children born to Olof Edward and Ruby Chapman Anderson. He grew up in St. Ignatius, Montana, where he graduated from St. Ignatius High School in 1951.
In September of the same year, Dale married his high school sweetheart, Gladys Rowley, on September 18, 1951. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to each other and their family. They were blessed with seven children, whom they raised with deep affection, providing a home full of memories on Mission Creek.
Dale worked for the Bureau of Indian Affairs as a Heavy Equipment Operator until 1984. Afterward, he took the leap to entrepreneurship, opening his own business, Dale’s Digger, which he operated until his retirement. The business took him to Stevensville, Montana, where he forged many lasting friendships and contributed to the community.
A lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Dale was deeply committed to his faith. He served as the bishop of the Stevensville Ward, where he was loved and respected by many. Dale and Gladys also served a mission for the Church in Nauvoo, Illinois, while they were living in Dillon, Montana. After that, they moved to Rexburg, Idaho, where they served another mission in Tallahassee Florida. Upon their return they served as temple workers, further solidifying their commitment to the gospel. Later, they lived in Shelley, Idaho, for four years before returning to Montana in 2021, where they enjoyed their final years surrounded by their daughter, Chris, and her family.
Dale’s life was marked by his work ethic, devotion to his family, and his steadfast faith. He leaves behind a rich legacy of love and service to all who knew him.
Dale was a devoted husband to Gladys for 73 years, a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His memory will forever be cherished by his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all those who were blessed to know him.
Dale is survived by his loving wife, Gladys Rowley Anderson, and their children: Chris (Rocky) Gilleard, Glenn (Glenda), Larry (Jane), Leo, Lonnie (Donita), Gordon (Susan), and Alden (Colleen) Anderson. He is also survived by his 27 grandchildren, 60 great-grandchildren, and 12 great-great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and all of his siblings, Arvil, Melvin, Hazel, Floyd, Lawrence and Lila.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Dale’s name to the Missionary Fund of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Visitation was on Monday, June 9, 2025 at the Stevensville Stake Center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. A funeral service followed at the Stevensville Stake Center. Interment took place at Hillcrest Cemetery in Shelley, Idaho on Tuesday..
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Dale’s name to the Missionary Fund of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Condolences may be left for the family at www.dalyleachchapel.com.