Dale Lawrence Musgrave

Dale Lawrence Musgrave was born on September 9th 1945 to Lawrence "Musky" and Alice Fowler Musgrave in Fresno California. Dale went into eternal rest at his home on November 9th 2025. Dale was predeceased by his parents and younger brother Floyd "Red" Musgrave.He is survived by his wife Katherine "Kitty" Musgrave (wedded for 41 years) along with eldest brother Wayne "Moose" Musgrave and several nieces and nephews.
Dale grew up in Riverdale, California and developed an interest in automobiles and racing while working at his father's wrecking yard which also provided auto repair and a paint shop. While pursuing his college degree he worked at the Five Points Field station. After graduating from Coalinga (West Hills) College with a degree in auto mechanics he worked several years in Fresno at Lloyd's Autowerkstadt before pursuing his own business venture "Dale's Automotive" in the mid '70's which he had grown and maintained for over 50 years! Through his business he was able to make a dream come true to become involved in offroad racing and was quite successful for many years. Dale had numerous racing adventures including the Baja 500/1000 and many closed dirt tracks through which he made many friends along the way.
One of his favorite pleasures was attending live races whether it was a local sprint car event or going to the Indy 500 along with trips to NASCAR races and the "Chili Bowl"
As his business grew so did his friendships with all his "family" of customers at Dale's Automotive.
Dale truly loved working and visiting with his customers and would do anything he could to help them. We all know Dale loved going to lunch and hanging out with friends to solve the world's problems or share old times or talk about the races.
Dale and Kitty are also animal lovers and rescued an innumerable number of them over the years!
Dale was a modern "Good Samaritan" in his last months he actually was going to the local food bank regularly to pick up food baskets to take to those he knew were in need! He also often shared the meals they had at the Wednesday night Verdi Club meetings with friends.
Dale was a long standing member of the Verdi Club and developed many friendships throughout the membership. He will always be remembered for his great humor and generous spirit which touched everyone he met! Always ready for adventure, Dale never let life's challenges hold him back or slow him down. Dale always brought life to the party and welcomed everyone. So that's why we are inviting you to the celebration party to honor his life and friendship! Please tell your stories amongst yourselves and with the group as we sit around the tables to share a last meal with Dale.
Simply bring yourself and your favorite memory of Dale to share. If you are unable to attend and wish to share a story please feel free to send it to the email below because Dale would never want anyone left out!
For all who plan on attending EMAIL RSVP with Name and Number coming ASAP to:
[email protected]
Dale's Celebration of Life will begin at 11:00 AM on Saturday January 10th 2026 till 4:00 PM at the
VERDI CLUB
2532 N Marks Ave
Fresno, Ca 93722
*Lunch will be served along with beverages and dessert
**Any donations can be made in Dale's name to a reputable animal rescue or racing foundation that aids injured drivers.