Dale Atherton

Dale Elwood Atherton, age 74, of Amaranth, PA passed away on February 2, 2022 (2.2.22).

He is survived by his children, Michael (Deah), Rodney (Jackie) & Tina; grandchildren Tyler (Sandy), Ben (Amber), Kai & Megan; great-granddaughter, Kenzee; brothers Barry (Carolyn) Atherton and Edward Atherton; and nieces and nephew, Dawn, Sherri, Autumn and Eric.

Born on December 9, 1947, he was preceded in death by his parents, Donald & Emma (Wenger) Atherton; brother, Richard Atherton; and Niece, Dorinda Atherton.

Born and raised in Franklin County, Dale graduated from St. Thomas High School in 1965 and started his career at Grove Manufacturing Company in 1966.  After being drafted for service into the US Army, he proudly served his country from 1966 - 1969.  Decorated with numerous medals including 5 Purple Hearts (which are earned through acts of valor, bravery, and courage) he considered himself one of the lucky ones to return home from Vietnam.

After resettling in Franklin County, Dale raised his family while working full-time at Grove Manufacturing Company (Manitowoc) and part-time at the Henry Brechbill Farms in Duffield, He retired from Grove (Manitowoc) after 41 years of service on July 7, 2007 (7.7.7).

Anyone who met Dale, would find him quiet, self-effacing, quick-witted, funny and unique.  He was a genuine one-of-a-kind character who enjoyed making people laugh and finding ways to “work smarter, not harder”.  His numerous inventions were a wonder to behold.

An avid hunter in his younger days, he enjoyed taking his grandsons, niece and nephews hunting.  In the past few years, he was most at ease roaming the mountains looking for deer sheds, taking pictures of creatures, and on his bicycle riding the roads of Amaranth.

His memory will be held dear by his family, his friends, neighbors and colleagues who all have a story to tell about the “bicycle man”.  Dale was greatly loved, and his presence will be truly missed.

An open house to celebrate the life of Dale E. Atherton will be held on February 9, 2022, from 1:00-4:00 pm at Amaranth Church of the Brethren, 2709 McKees Gap Road, Warfordsburg, PA 17267.