Dale Dopita

Dale Richard Dopita, 89, passed away on April 24, 2024.

Dale Richard Dopita, 89, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend passed away in Pocatello, ID on April 24, 2024. Dale will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Dale was born August 1, 1934 on the family farm in Buhl, ID to Charles and Edith Dopita. He was the youngest of six children. At an early age the family moved to Twin Falls, ID.

Dale joined the United States Marine Corps in 1952 at age 18 and served during the Korean War. Dale made many lifelong friends during this time, who he would continue to see through the years at annual reunions. While home on leave Dale met his love, Gloria Webb, they corresponded and upon his discharge they were married on July 5, 1957. Dale and Gloria celebrated 66 years of marriage and shared in many adventures during that time in addition to raising their family.

Dale and Gloria moved to Pocatello in 1959 for Dale to attend Idaho State College. Dale worked 30 years for Kraft Foods and 5 years for Heinz. In true fashion, he made many friends who he kept in contact with long after retirement. Retiring in 1995, Dale and Gloria started their career of traveling throughout the United States in their motorhome, visiting 49 of the 50 states. They also spent their winters in sunny Arizona enjoying friends and many activities. Dale loved to travel but his favorite place to go was on the annual family and friends camping trip to Redfish Lake, where for over 50 years many happy memories were made.

Dale’s interests were varied, fishing, hunting, an avid reader, knitting many hats that he loved to give to everyone, and volunteering for many community organizations. Dale was also a wood worker and builder. Building two family homes; the first home well known as the Snoopy House on Bannock Hwy.

Dale is survived by his wife Gloria, daughter Denise, son Dan (Katy) of Pocatello, twin daughters Katie and Heidi of Brooklyn NY, 6 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.

Graveside services will be held on Friday May 3, 2024, 1:00 pm at Restlawn Memorial Gardens, 2864 South 5th Ave. Pocatello, ID. The Marines Honor Guard will be there to perform Military Rites. Family and Friends welcome.

Please join us following the service for a luncheon and visiting at the LDS church, 8200 W Portneuf Rd Pocatello, ID.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family below.

“If there ever comes a day when we can’t be together, keep me in your heart, I’ll stay there forever.”