Dale Fuehrer, 82

Dale Fuehrer, 82, passed away April 5, 2007, at St. Peter's Hospital in Helena, surrounded by his family. He was born May 18, 1924, to Lester and Kattilla Fuehrer in Casper, Wyo. He grew up in Mitchell, Neb., graduating high school in 1942. Dale served in the United States Army in the Philippines during World War II.

After the war, Dale attended the University of Wyoming, graduating from the business school in 1950. Dale took a job with Galusha, Higgins and Galusha in Helena. In the early years, he enjoyed working summers in Virginia City and winters in Helena. During this time he met his future wife, Esther Muske. They were married in Helena at St. John's Lutheran Church on July 8, 1953. Dale and Esther raised five children and shared 54 years of marriage.

Dale retired from Galusha's in 1986 after 36 years.

Dale was active in numerous community organizations over the years, including Jaycees, past president of Montana Club, was a member of the City-County Airport board in 1965 and was instrumental in providing Helena with a new airport terminal, Lions Club, member of the Green Meadow Country Club, Morning Star Lodge No. 5, and became a member of the Algeria Shrine on Oct. 8, 1969, and participated with the Algeria Shrine Chanters and the Circus Patrol.

Dale is survived by his wife, Esther; his children, Leslie and Dave Baldridge of Great Falls, Paula and Mark Blessinger, Nancy and Dewey Bruce, Kurt and Susan Fuehrer, all of Helena, and Kris and Laurie Fuehrer of Whitefish; 10 grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

A memorial service is scheduled at 11 a.m., Tuesday, April 10, at St. John's Lutheran Church. Cremation has been entrusted to Anderson Cremation Services. Private family interment will take place at a later date at the Montana State Veterans Cemetery at Fort Harrison. Graveside military honors will be conducted by the Lewis & Clark Veterans Council.

Memorial donations are suggested to the Algeria Shrine Transportation Fund, P.O. Box 1174, Helena, MT 59624-1174; Lewis & Clark Humane Society, P.O. Box 4455, Helena, MT 59604-4455; St. Peter's Hospital Dialysis Unit, 2475 Broadway, Helena, MT 59601; or the charity of donor's choice.

Local arrangements are under the care of Hagler-Anderson Funeral Home.