Dale Curtis Hogue, Sr.

Dale Curtis Hogue, Sr. passed away at home in Charlotte, North Carolina, on April 23, 2024, of complications from pulmonary fibrosis. He was 82.

Dale was born on February 11, 1942, in St. Louis, Missouri. He credited his mother, Juanita, for raising him and working long hours to support the family. The two had a very special bond.

With the encouragement of those who saw his potential, Dale attended Washington University and graduated in 1964 with a degree in engineering where he made lifelong friends at the Kappa Sigma fraternity.

After graduating college, Dale joined the Air Force and was assigned to the 12TFW as an intelligence officer. Soon after joining the wing, he was sent to Okinawa, Japan and Thailand. In 1965, he was sent to Cam Ranh Bay Air Base in Vietnam for a yearlong tour. The experience left its mark on him in countless ways, good and bad. He was always proud of his squadron and proud to serve his country.

Dale graduated from Georgetown Law School in 1970, as the first Vietnam veteran of Georgetown's law program. He racked up years of experience as a highly skilled patent attorney, a practice from which he only just retired, and served in other roles as well, ranging from lobbyist, political fundraiser, real estate developer, investment banker, business entrepreneur, and gentleman farmer. Throughout his career, Dale demonstrated a tireless work ethic. He took great pride in sharing his knowledge with others and mentoring younger colleagues. He was esteemed by his clients, many of whom called themselves friends.

Of all his accomplishments, Dale was most proud of his enduring relationship with Carolyn, his loving wife of 59 years and best friend. Their engagement story is the stuff of legend. They met at a party in 1965, while Dale was stationed at Eglin Air Force Base, and went on a few dates before Dale went to Okinawa for six months, during which time they faithfully corresponded. After his return, on her way to a date with Dale, Carolyn was in a terrible car accident. Somehow, between hospital visits and Dale's imminent departure for Vietnam, they decided to get hitched. The wedding was hastily arranged in a matter of days. Bride and groom made a glamourous couple despite Carolyn's broken jaw and the cast on her arm.

Starting a family was a high point in Dale's life. As an only child, he always wanted many kids. He described the day Curtis was born as the happiest day of his life and took immeasurable pride in each of his three strapping sons (who all outgrew him). He was a steady influence in their lives and a regular attendee of their sports' games.

One of Dale's greatest gifts was his sense of humor. He was quick with a joke or a Yogi Berra quote. He came up with funny nicknames for his grandkids and sent them his favorite cartoons. In later years, inspired by cruise travel, he wrote amusing short stories about quirky characters and their misadventures around the globe.

He is survived by his wife Carolyn; his three sons and their spouses, Curtis, Sean (Janeen), and Stuart (Gina); and his seven grandchildren, Adalie, Brayden, Cal, Barrett, Alexander, Ridgely and Anna.

He was the most loving husband, father, and grandfather, and while his family is heartbroken by his passing, they are grateful for the calls and messages of support from those who knew and loved him. He overcame early obstacles to lead a remarkable life, guided by his faith and centered around an abiding love for his family. It was a life well lived.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 15, 2024, 2:00pm at Christ Episcopal Church, 1412 Providence Rd, Charlotte, North Carolina. A celebration of life will follow immediately after.

The family asks that in lieu of flowers donations may be made to:

Tunnels to Towers: Donate to Tunnel to Towers Foundation https://dogood.t2t.org/give/320847/?gad_source=1#!/donation/checkout

Hospice & Palliative Care Charlotte Region:

https://www.viagiving.org/one-time-giving