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In Memory Of

Dale William McGillen, Age 79, of Butte

November 2, 1944 – January 29, 2024

Dale William McGillen, age 79, of Butte, passed away peacefully, of natural causes, with his loving wife by his side on January 29, 2024. He was born November 2, 1944, to Harry and Betty Kurtz McGillen in Butte, Montana.

Following graduating from Butte High School, Dale joined the Navy receiving an Honorable Discharge. He worked many different jobs in his life, but the trucking industry was his passion. After retiring, he worked part time for many years at the Silver Bow Port.

On May 27, 1967, Dale married Joanna Tiefenbach. Together they raised two children, Mike and Bernadette. During Dale’s career in the trucking industry, they lived in many towns in Montana and spent a number of years in California. They eventually returned to Butte where he lived the remainder of his life.

Dale always enjoyed spending time with family and especially his time with his grandkids. He will always be remembered for his generosity and all the many crazy camping adventures he took the family on. He also enjoyed reading books.

Dale was preceded in death by his parents; his older brother, Wayne McGillen; niece, Yvonne Martin; and nephew, David Suttey.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Joanna Tiefenbach McGillen; son, Michael (Sherrie) McGillen; daughter, Bernadette McGillen (Jeff Rustad); stepdaughter, Lora Zelka; grandchildren, Kurt, Riley (Tausha), Jahsyn (Josh) Connor, Riley, Tyler, Kohler, Kahmron, Tyler (Rachel); great grandkids, Tieje, Piper, and soon-to-be-born Noah; brother, Paul (Linda) McGillen; sister and brother-in-law, Eletha and John Suttey; and sister-in-law Margie McGillen. He is also survived by his beloved pets, Cooper and Snowball.

Dale was dearly loved and will be missed by numerous other relatives and good friends. You couldn’t ask for a better man!

Cremation has taken place, and his ashes will be interred at Fort Harrison at a later date.

Please visit below to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Dale.

Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Dale and his family.

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Read the thoughts and memories, then feel free to add your own.

  1. Linda Albright says

    January 31, 2024 at 9:04 am

    So very sorry for your loss.

    Linda A.

  2. Sarah Maciag says

    January 31, 2024 at 1:05 pm

    Dale was a great guy, he always had a smile and kind word❤️

  3. Denise Horne says

    January 31, 2024 at 4:50 pm

    Bern, so sorry for your loss. May his Memory be Eternal

  4. Chris Greathouse says

    January 31, 2024 at 5:58 pm

    So sorry for your loss. Will be praying for you and your family.

  5. Cheryl Fitzpatrick says

    January 31, 2024 at 10:19 pm

    Bernadette, Tyler and family
    I’m so sorry for the loss of your dad and grandpa. Sending you thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

  6. Denise Moore says

    February 1, 2024 at 12:30 pm

    You were the best father-in-law. You will be missed.

  7. Mark Rowles says

    June 13, 2024 at 9:21 pm

    I remember Dale fairly well. My heart goes out to his family and all that love this man. He is special and he will always be loved and remembered by me. What a remarkable family. I miss you Bernadette.
    Cheers 🍻

  8. Anonymous says

    June 13, 2024 at 9:30 pm

    Words from Dale McGillen:
    …..Don’t take my daughter out unless you can afford it !!
    Well….. I couldn’t then, but now perhaps.
    I miss you guys and Bernadette.

  9. Mark Rowles says

    June 13, 2024 at 9:51 pm

    Breathe……:::

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