Obituary: Dale Lynn Shank

Dale Lynn Shank, 72, of Ransomville, left this planet on June 8, 2022, at his residence, under the care of Niagara Hospice. Born in Niagara Falls, New York, he was the son of the late Dale F. and Margaret M. (Jamieson) Shank.

Dale was a 1967 graduate of Trott Vocational High School. He later earned associate degrees from the Northrup Institute in aerospace maintenance and technology, and from Erie Community College in metallurgy. Dale proudly served in the U.S. Navy from his enlistment during the Vietnam War in 1968 until his honorable discharge in 1972, where he was trained on jet engine mechanics in Memphis and Lemore, California, and later served on the USS Forrestal Aircraft Carrier CVA-59 in Cecil Field, Florida.

Dale was employed as an operator with Occidental Chemical, and later in quality control with the Hebeler Corp. in Tonawanda, and MOOG Aerospace in Niagara Falls, prior to his retirement. After retirement, he was employed by the Village of Lewiston as summer help, watering flowers and helping to beautify Center Street – a job he loved. 

Dale was extremely active at the 3F Conservation Club in Youngstown. He enjoyed pheasant hunting with his two Labrador Retrievers, fishing and woodworking. Dale will be remembered most for his sense of humor, kindness to others, mentorship to youth and love of his family.

Dale is survived by his companion of 35 years, Pamela Barber; and his siblings: Paula J. Shank (Morgan Drew), Paul N. Shank, James R. (Victoria) Shank and Gary A. (Jane) Shank. He was known as Uncle Dale to his nieces and nephews: Rachelle LeBrilla, Vanessa Hill, Amanda Rindahl, James S. Shank, Jillian (Mario) Colucci, Nick (Brittani) Shank, Samantha Shank, Tracy Lynn (Ryan) DiPinto and Dale J. “DJ” (Gabrielle) Shank; as well as his 12 great-nieces and great-nephews. He is also survived by many cousins and dear friends. Dale was predeceased by his brother, David L. Shank.

Visitation took place Tuesday, June 14, at M. J. Colucci and Son Niagara Funeral Home, Niagara Falls, where funeral services were held Wednesday, June 15. Internment with military honors took place in Acacia Park Cemetery, North Tonawanda.

In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to Niagara Hospice, 4675 Sunset Drive, Lockport, NY, 14094; the 3F Conservation Club Youth Club, 904 Swann Road, Youngstown, NY, 14174; or to the Courage of Carly Fund, https://courageofcarleyfund.org/.

Visit www.mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.