Dale Richard Tarkalson

Dale Tarkalson was born August 29, 1944, to Judith and Willard Tarkalson. He passed away on February 17, 2026. Dale had three children. His eldest daughter Bobbie was born while he was married to Mary Bea Fozzard. Dale spoke for months about what a wonderful time he had awhile ago during a visit with Bobbie in Arizona. In October of 1972 he married Pat Scoville of Olalla, Washington. They lived many of their 55 years together in Butte and had two children Shawntre and Jennifer. He worked as a diesel mechanic for the Anaconda Company and the Atlantic Richfield Company (ARCO). When ARCO shut down he moved to Nevada to work for Newmont Gold mining company and was a supervisor for several years before retiring. Dale was a expert mechanic who could diagnose and fix anything motorized. Dale loved his wife Pat, his children, his family and his friends. Anyone who knew Dale would tell you he was an honest, quiet, kind, loyal, gentle, caring and non-judgmental person who never said an unkind word about anyone. Helping and taking care of others always came first with Dale. Dale was predeceased by his son Shawntre and daughter Jennifer, and his parents Judith and Willard Tarkalson. He is survived by his wife Pat; daughter Bobbie Davis and grandson Josh Murphy; granddaughter Lacey and great grandchildren Finlee and Kennady; grandson Trey Tarkalson; brother Gary, sisters Joan Plaja (Mike) and Lois Micheletti (Greg); nephew David Tarkalson, niece Debbie Fouts, and numerous grandnieces, grandnephews and cousins. When Dale got his first car he took his sisters to Delmoe Lake where they ate baloney sandwiches and pickles on shore while fishing. He always looked after his younger sisters and took them with him whenever he could. He loved nature, loved to camp, loved to explore on his four-wheeler and looked forward to anything that took him outdoors. He and Pat explored the great outdoors using all modes of transportation. He loved all of his dogs who were always his best friends. Someone close to him said: “Dale was a model for those of us who wish to go to heaven. I will spend the rest of my life trying to be more like him.” Cremation will take place and a Celebration of Life will be held this summer with details to follow. Dale will be greatly missed. The family invites everyone who knew Dale to please share your memories and sentiments on Wayrynen-Richards website

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Dale Richard Tarkalson

August 29, 1944 - February 17, 2026