Dale S. Dye

Dale Slater Dye believed that the most important thing in life was, and is, family. An amazing wife, mother, and Nanna, she passed away with her family by her side in Petoskey, Michigan.

Dale graduated from Greenwich High School in Greenwich, Connecticut. Although she raised her family in Okemos, Michigan, part of her heart resides along the shores of Tod’s Point, where she enjoyed childhood clambakes with her beloved parents, siblings, cousins, aunts, and uncles.

Married for 52 years, Dale and Thom were engaged after three and a half months and married after five. Some of the best advice she gave her children was, “When it is right, you just know.”

Being a mother and Nanna was one of Dale’s great joys. When pouring maple syrup on her grandchildren’s pancakes, she always said, “Some sugar for my Sugars.” They loved her banana muffins and fudge and have so many fond memories of cooking with her. Passionate about healthy eating and exercise, Dale was the first in line at the gym each morning and spent countless hours on the phone teaching her adult children how to cook. Bike riding, rollerblading, and walks in the woods were woven into the fabric of her life, and her salads were legendary.

Dale led a deeply connected life, extending unconditional love to her husband, children, their spouses, grandchildren, extended family, and close friends. She delighted in visiting her son and his wife in Brooklyn and her daughter’s family in Petoskey. She loved all animals, especially the deer who visited her bird feeder each night.

Perhaps one of Dale’s greatest gifts was her ability to be fully present when she was with you. This gift made those who she loved feel valued beyond measure.

She is survived by her husband, Thomas Dye; children, Jeff Dye (Amanda) and Amy Janssens (Christian); grandchildren, Quintin, Cole, Amelie, and Maeve; and brothers Evan and Bobby Slater; as well as her beloved sisters-in-law, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. Dale took great pride in being a Slater; may those proceeding her in death welcome her with their loving embrace.

A private celebration of life will take place at the Perry Hotel in Petoskey.

The family would like to thank The Hiland Cottage Hospice House staff and volunteers for their kindness and care. The staff and garden brought Dale and her family much comfort. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Hiland Cottage Hospice House. www.mclaren.org/northern-michigan-foundation/home-care-and-hospice-foundation

Please share your memories and personal messages with the family on her guestbook below.