Frank J. Dale, Sr. (born Skundale), 93, of Decatur, loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather and highly decorated WWII veteran, recipient of the Bronze Star for Valor, passed away Sunday, June 13th in Atlanta. He was an avid golfer, continuing to play into his early nineties.
He was the youngest of seven children, born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, attending Tech High School and Georgia Institute of Technology. He spent two years after graduation working for the TVA in Knoxville, TN. He retired in 1983 as a civil engineer for the Federal Government.
Upon his graduation in 1939 from Georgia Tech, he was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Army. In 1942 he was called to active duty. His mission was to lead a group of commandos on the Phillipine island of Luzon in 1944. This secret mission was primarily for reconnaissance and to supply and train guerilla fighters in explosives and automatic weapons. He was promoted to the rank of Major upon his return and featured in an article in the Atlanta Journal citing him for his bravery.
He was preceded in death by his wife Pauline and his son Stephen. He is survived by his son Frank Jr, daughter Ellen Algers, son-in-law, Gary Algers, grandchildren Michael Algers and Katie Algers of Atlanta, Anthea Dale Garrett of Monroe and Phillip Dale of Atlanta, great-grand children Angelique and Alexis Dale. Also surviving is a sister, Frances Gallis of Athens, Georgia.
A visitation will take place at A.S. Turner and Sons at 2773 North Decatur Road, Decatur, Georgia 30033 from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM, Tuesday, June 15 with a prayer service immediately following in the chapel at 7:00 PM. The funeral will be held Wednesday, June 16, at 11:00 AM at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annuciation, 2500 Clairmont Road, Atlanta, Georgia 30329. Burial immediately following at Floral Hills Memory Gardens, Tucker, Georgia. Pallbearers include Mr.Ernie Carperos, Dr. Nick C. Jones, Dr. George Patterson, Mr Hank Pryles, Mr. Chris Pappadakis, Mr. Nick Economy. Honorary pallbearers Mr. Mike Galifianakis, Dr. Manuel Tissura, Mr. Mike Balsamides and Mr. Jack Carusos. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of Atlanta or The Alzheimer’s Association, a cause to which he was devoted.
