Dale R. Daugherty

Dale Russell Daugherty, age 83, of Howell, formerly of Davisburg, passed away on August 10, 2025. He was born on June 15, 1942 in Mount Clemens, Michigan; son of Russell and Eva (Jorah) Daugherty. He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Betty Rae Shaw on November 11, 1988; spending over 36 years devoted to each other and their families.

Dale graduated from Mount Clemens High School, class of 1961. He continued his education at Central Michigan University where he received a bachelor’s degree in engineering. After graduating, Dale began his career with Chrysler. During the war, he shifted to General Dynamics, a global leader in aerospace and defense. He later returned to Chrysler, where colleagues affectionately knew him as “Dawg,” and retired after 40 years as an Engineer Specialist. His meticulous attention to detail made him an exceptional employee, and in his spare time, he enjoyed writing and editing manuals.

Dale was always ready to help, giving his time and talents to his community in many ways. As an active volunteer with VFW Post 4156 in Union Lake, he pitched in at special events like fish frys. A proud member of the Eagles Club, he treasured the many friendships he built there.

A man of varied interests, Dale had an extensive VHS collection that he gladly shared with family and friends. In true Dale fashion, each tape was meticulously cataloged with its own numbering system, making it easy for anyone to find the perfect video. He was intrigued by computers long before they became common, spending countless hours exploring genealogy and successfully tracing his family roots back to the Mayflower. His tech skills made him the go-to person for anyone needing computer help.

When Michigan winters set in, Dale enjoyed spending time in Palmetto, Florida. He often served as the DJ for dances and parties at his retirement community. He also had a love of travel, visiting countries such as France, Austria, Ireland, and Wales. Each trip was meticulously documented in scrapbooks, complete with the detailed travel manuals he created. Golf was one of Dale’s greatest passions. He played in many leagues, including a mixed league with his wife, and enjoyed countless rounds with family and friends. Dale also enjoyed fishing and bowling.

Above all else, Dale was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a cherished grandfather and great-grandfather. His warmth, generosity, and spirit will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate to know him.

Dale is survived by his loving wife Betty; his son Michael (Bridget) Daugherty; his stepdaughter Suzanne (Martin) Willis; his sisters, Sandy Daugherty and Gail Cleland; his grandchildren, Franklin (Sherree) Daugherty, Alysse (Brandon) Murray, Michael (Karen) Mitchell, Sarah Miracle, Raymond (Drew) Pickard, Sheena (Erich) Ross, and Travis (Samantha) Willis; and 15 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; his stepchildren, Renee Day and Jimbo Pickard; and his stepson-in-law Gary Day.

A celebration of Dale’s life will be held Saturday, August 16, 2025 at Hawk Meadows Golf Club, 410 East Marr Road, Howell, MI 48855. The service will begin at noon, with a luncheon to follow. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, 322 Eighth Avenue, 16th Floor, New York, NY 10001.