WHITING – Dale E. Pottle, 72, passed away July 15, 2010, surrounded by his loving family at a Bangor hospital. He was born Aug. 17, 1937, in Machias, son of Leigh and Bernice (Davis) Pottle. After his graduation from Machias High School, Class of 1955, Dale proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force. He was with the 465th Fighter Interception Squadron in 1958 that brought honors to Griffiss Air Force Base, Rome, N.Y., achieving “Top Gun” status at the Yuma, Ariz., competition, and also winning the William Tell Award at the World Wide Weapons Meet at Tyndall Air Force Base. He also received top honors as expert marksmen on the firing range with a perfect score – “All shots inside the bullseye.” All accomplishments he was so very proud of. On Dec. 4, 1959, he married the love of his life, Muriel (McLaughlin). After his military service he worked a time for Pratt & Whitney, but then moved back to Maine, where he was so proud to call Whiting home. There he began a career that spanned 48 years as a meat cutter, eventually becoming the meat manager, working in the many local supermarkets including, Farmer’s Red & White, A&P, Gay’s Shop ‘n Save and Lyons IGA. He took great pride that he put out the best product possible, and considered all customers his friends. He most recently worked for CARQUEST and was a volunteer driver for Meals for ME. He was a member of Whiting Community Church, serving as deacon and trustee. He also served the town of Whiting in the capacity of selectman, planning board and Whiting School Board. He was a member of American Legion Stuart-Green Post No. 65, Lubec; Warren Masonic Lodge No. 2, East Machias; and a noble of Anah Temple Shrine, Bangor. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, enjoyed a good story, had a wonderful sense of humor and enjoyed being around people, but he especially loved being with family. He was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. He leaves behind his wife of 50 years, Muriel; his daughter, Gale E. Pottle-Townsend; a sister, Frances Hatt; and the sunshine and joy of his life, his granddaughter, Robyn Leigh Townsend. Dale was looking so forward to walking her down the aisle and welcoming her fiance, Daniel Bryant, into the family. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews and cousins, and will be missed by many friends and service buddies with the 465th Fighter Interception Squadron, whom Dale and Muriel had the opportunity to attend a reunion with in 2007 at Griffiss Air Force Base. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by two brothers, Cecil and “Bud” Merton; and his first granddaughter, Jesyca Joy, which was a tremendous loss to him. Funeral services accompanied by military honors will be held 2 p.m. Sunday, July 25, at Machias Valley Baptist Church with Pastor John Sprague officiating. Private family burial services will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to remember Dale is a special way may make gifts to Maine Veterans Home, 44 Hogan Road, Bangor, ME 04401 or Ronald McDonald House of Bangor, Inc., 654 State St., Bangor, ME 04401. Arrangements are in care of McClure Family Funeral Services, Machias and Lubec.
DALE E. POTTLE
