Ernest Dale Graham, 67, of Greeley, Colorado died Tuesday, November 2, 2010, at Kenton Manor in Greeley after a brief illness. He was sent home surrounded by his loving children.
Dale was born January 2, 1943, in Rocky Ford, Colorado to Ernest and Della (Billingsley) Graham at the family farm. Dale grew up in Rocky Ford graduating from Rocky Ford High School in 1961. He then attended Otero Junior College in La Junta, Colorado obtaining his associates degree in engineering technology. On October 6, 1962, he married Paula McCammon in Rocky Ford. He and his family moved to Greeley in 1968, where he resided until the time of his death.
Dale worked in the construction industry most of his adult life. At the time of his death, he was self-employed in his own business, "Graham Builders".
Dale enjoyed athletics and participated in many sports over the years. He was an active supporter of his children's high school booster club and his family's athletics. In addition, he was an avid Broncos, Rockies, and Nuggets fan.
Dale was also very creative and derived pleasure from making things with his hands, especially woodworking items. He was also an enthusiastic outdoorsman who was always ready to go hunting or fishing.
Being a member of the First Christian Church of Greeley, he was actively involved in his church. He served on the diaconate as an elder and willingly gave of his time and energy to church projects.
Dale was known for his sense of humor and zest for life, which was evident in all he did. He loved his family and friends deeply, and would help those who were in need. He never met a stranger, and will be remembered for his grin, the twinkle in his eyes, and his special hugs.
Dale is survived by his wife, Paula of Greeley; his children: Dan (April) of Longview, Tx, Carrie Durr of Evans, Jim of Windsor, and Steve of Greeley; his grandchildren: Michael Durr of Evans and Hannah Graham of Longview, Tx. Also survived by his sister, Linda Ehrlich of Greeley; sisters-in-law: Peggy Graham of Centerville, Ut; Judy (Jack) Herrin of Belen, NM; and Linda McCammon-Whalen of Greeley; as well as many other relatives and friends.
Dale was preceded in death by his parents; parents-in-law; brother, Joe; son-in-law, Jeff Durr; and nephew, Joe D.
A funeral service to celebrate Dale's life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 6, 2010 at the First Christian Church, 2230 13th Street in Greeley. Visitation will be held on Friday from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at the First Christian Church and from 9:00 a.m. until time of service on Saturday at the church.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to either First Christian Church of Greeley or Northern Colorado Hospice, in care of Moser Funeral and Cremation Services, 3501 S 11th Ave, Evans, CO 80620.