Obituary of Dale Colter

It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Orville Dale Colter on September 26, 2024, at the age of 83. Dale was born on October 20, 1940, in Crystal City, Manitoba, to Orville and Margaret (née Dalgarno) Colter.

In July 1962, Dale married the love of his life, Edith, and together they shared 62 wonderful years. He was known for his strength, compassion, and unwavering love for family and friends.

Dale was predeceased by his parents, Orville and Margaret, and his brother, Barry (Lorraine). He is survived by his beloved wife, Edith; daughters Shelley, Marcey (David), and Sandy (Todd); son Dean (Marnie); grandchildren Brittany, Meghan, Angie, Owen, Cameron, and Liam; as well as several loving nieces, nephews, and cousins, including his special cousin Ruth Waters and her family. 

Dale had a special fondness for the many pets who became part of the family for over 40 years and in the last 20 years of his life, he also took care of pets for family and friends.

Dale’s professional life was one of dedication and distinction. He began his career with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) as a border patrol agent, serving in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. In 1970, he accepted a position in Ottawa, where he would spend the remainder of his career as Director of the Travelers Directorate, overseeing Passenger Programs. His work took him around the globe, eventually leading him to head a United Nations delegation in Macedonia, assisting local agents in securing and enforcing borders during the conflict in the former Yugoslavia. Even in retirement, Dale continued to lend his expertise as a consultant, advising on border issues in countries like Vietnam and Jamaica.

An avid sports enthusiast, Dale had a lifelong passion for hockey, football, curling, and golf. Whether cheering at live games or from his living room, he took great joy in following his favorite teams. He and Edith shared a deep love for golf and the thrill of travel, embarking on numerous adventures together. From visiting family and friends to enjoying countless cruises, each journey was an opportunity to discover new and beautiful destinations.

For nearly 30 years, Dale and Edith cherished their time at their trailer on White Lake, creating treasured memories with family and friends. Dale loved taking his children and their friends boating and waterskiing, and he even embraced the challenge of learning to sail a canoe. Known as "Papa," Dale was the biggest fan of his grandchildren, finding immense joy in watching them participate in their various activities.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the incredible nursing and medical staff at Saint-Vincent Hospital for their compassionate care, as well as to Dr. Mir and her team for their unwavering support throughout the years.

Please join us on Saturday, November 2, from 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. as we celebrate Dale's Life.

A time for words of remembrance will begin at 2:30 p.m.

We look forward to sharing memories and honoring Dale's legacy together.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to a charity of your choice in Dale’s memory.

In accordance with Dale’s wishes, his ashes will be spread in the tranquil waters off Tortola in the British Virgin Islands, a place filled with cherished memories.