1933 - 2013
Dale was born in Bathurst, New Brunswick on February 2, 1933. At a young age, Dale and his mother moved to Hamilton, Ont. where he lived until joining the RCAF in 1951. Dale was stationed in Germany for a few years but soon found his way back to Ontario where he met his future wife Audrey Smith.
They were married in June of 1956. After a short stay in Cold Lake, Alberta, they were off to Europe for a 4 year stay in France. It was in Marville, France that they had their first child, Roy with a second child soon to follow, Lorraine.
With two children in hand, they returned to Canada in 1960 for a posting to CFB Comox. In 1963 they had their third child, Stephen. Dale was lucky enough to stay in Comox for the balance of his military career, retiring from the Airforce in 1975 and calling Comox home. For the next three years Dale managed the bars at the Mexicana Inn and then the Courtenay Hotel (Tiny Timber’s Lounge). In 1978 looking for a change, Dale and Audrey took a risk and bought a clothing store in the newly opened Driftwood Mall. Collings Men’s Wear soon became known as the best place for fine Men’s Clothing in the Comox Valley.
Dale and Audrey held on to the store for 16 years before the weakened economy took its toll and Collings Men’s Wear was closed in 1994. Soon after the close of his own store, Dale was asked to come to work for a new Men’s Store in Courtenay, Jim’s Clothes Closet. Dale enjoyed the next several years working in the industry he had grown to love.
Dale finally retired in 2002 at the age of 69 and enjoyed his final years spending time with his wife, his children and his grandchildren, he was a loving and supportive husband, father and grandfather.
Dale is survived by his wife Audrey, children Roy (Deborah) Collings, Lorraine Lang (Mitch Weiser), and Stephen Collings, his grandchildren Jason (Michelle) Collings, Mathew (Jaclyn) Collings and Tarryn Lang. Dale was predeceased by his mother Edith, brother Harley and sister Dee Dee.
He was a proud member of the Comox Legion for 40 years, so it is fitting that the celebration of his life will take place at 1pm, Saturday, June 15 in the Upper Hall of Comox Legion Branch 160, 1825 Comox Ave.
The family would like to thank the staff at the Comox Valley Seniors Village for their excellent care of Dale in his final days. Their compassion and kindness will always be remembered. We would also like to thank Dr. Daws for her excellent care of Dale over the last few years.
Toneff Funeral Services is entrusted with the arrangements.