Dale McClaflin

DALE MCCLAFLIN, 76 ROCKFORD - Dale McClaflin, 76, of Rockford passed away Tuesday, May 10, 2011, in Arizona. Born Jan. 1, 1935, in Valley City, N.D., the son of Charles and Lorraine (Thorsen) McClaflin. Dale married Sylvia Powell on June 15, 1963, in Chicago. He was a sales manager for United Laboratories. Dale served in the Army. He was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church. Dale was an inspiration to his family who always came first in his life. He had a great sense of humor and could always put a smile on your face. He was passionate about the game of golf and became an avid pickleball player while wintering in Arizona. He enjoyed great friends, good food, and a fine glass of wine. The spirit of Dale will always live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Survived by his best friend and loving wife of more than 47 years, Sylvia; son, Mike (Heidi) McClaflin of Phoenix; daughters, Deb Clark of Byron and Michelle (Jim) McGinnis of Spokane, Wash.; grandchildren, Grant and Dominic Arps, Michael and Charlie McClaflin, Jake Clark, Jess and Chance McGinnis; and sister, Charlotte Kurzeja of Wonder Lake. Predeceased by his parents. Memorial funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 21, at Holy Family Catholic Church, 4401 Highcrest Road., with visitation from 9 to 10:15 a.m.; the Rev. Andrew Mulcahey and Deacon Michael Cristoforo will officiate. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Donor Services, P.O. Box 4072, Pittsfield, MA 01202, www.lls.org. Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, Mulford Chapel, assisted the family.