Dale Joseph Lochtefeld

Dale Joseph Lochtefeld, a devoted father, beloved son, cherished brother, and loyal friend, passed away on January 9, 2025, at the age of 62.

Born on November 18, 1962, in Portland, Indiana, to Wilbert and Ann Marie Lochtefeld, Dale was the second oldest of their 7 children and a guiding light to his siblings. Standing tall at 6’5” and 15 years older than his youngest sibling, Dale’s presence was larger than life, and his role as a godfather, brother, and protector was deeply cherished.

Dale graduated from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida and lived a life filled with remarkable achievements. He worked as a model and for UPS before moving to Texas, where he embarked on a long and dedicated career as a mechanic for American Airlines. In addition to his career in aviation, Dale founded Paradise Pools, his own pool-cleaning business, to support his growing family.

Dale was the epitome of devotion, working tirelessly to provide for his family of eight children. Despite his demanding schedule, often running on just a few hours of sleep, he always prioritized being a loving, playful, and present father. His children—seven daughters and one son—were his greatest pride and joy. Dale’s deep faith and selflessness shone through in everything he did, making him a source of strength and inspiration to those who knew him.

An avid traveler and skilled handyman, Dale loved fixing things and was always the first to help others in a jam. He delighted in good food, often finishing the leftovers of those around him, and his infectious humor brought joy to every gathering.

Recently, Dale faced health challenges due to a non-cancerous brain tumor, which he had surgically removed just before Christmas. Surrounded by his children and his loving and supportive companion, Monica Liliana Calderon Rimada, the surgery went well, and he was home recovering. His sudden passing, though unexpected, leaves his family with faith and hope that he is now in Heaven, as promised in Revelation 21:5: “Behold, I make all things new.”

Dale is survived by his loving parents, Wilbert and Ann Marie Lochtefeld, and his siblings and their families: Carolyn and Ed Homan, Jim and Kate Lochtefeld, Denise and Greg Lochtefeld, Mark and Heather Lochtefeld, Dan and Mary Lochtefeld, and Amy and Chris Fish. He also leaves behind Monica Liliana Calderon Rimada, companion, Heather Marie Pels, the mother of his children, and his beloved children: Nadine Lochtefeld, Hannah (Jaykob)Harrington, Ashton Lochtefeld, Ella Lochtefeld, Kyla Lochtefeld, Isabella Lochtefeld, Blake Lochtefeld, and Hailey Lochtefeld.

Services honoring Dale’s life will begin with a visitation at Lucas Funeral Home in Keller on January 16, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A Funeral Mass will follow on January 17, 2025, at 10:30 AM at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton.

Dale’s legacy of love, faith, and selfless dedication will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered.