Dale U. Rellergert, 66, of Perryville, Missouri passed away Friday, March 31, 2023 at his residence.
He was born June 17, 1956 in Perryville, MO to Linus T. and Mary Ann (Buchheit) Rellergert.
Dale was baptized, confirmed and received his first holy communion in the Catholic Faith. He was a 1974 Graduate of Perryville High School.
Dale lived a life many can only dream of. He grew up being taught to treat others the way you wish to be treated and a strong work ethic. He carried both with him through his life, passing this wisdom onto others he met on his journey.
Growing up he loved family gatherings, playing ball with cousins and playing solo with the entire family (it was a special day when aunts and uncles joined in). From a young age he had a great love for fishing and hunting, consistently coming home with trophies. As he got older and began going to the hunting cabin with Uncle Leo his passion grew. One can only imagine the stories that were told in that cabin over the year.
Holidays were a special time for Dale as well growing up. He and his cousin Bobby made it an annual tradition to go up to K of C Hall the Wednesday before Thanksgiving with friends to play pitch and shoot pool. It was during this time in his life he also played softball, building more friendships that would continue over the years.
Dale began working at Gilster even before he graduated. Over time he found his calling and true passion in construction, continuing on this path throughout the years. One of his favorite pastimes after retirement in 2019 was taking rides with Nancy “Toots” and pointing out the homes his hands had touched. His craftsmanship was impeccable and evident when people would see him out in public and thank him for taking such care in what he did for them.
In his spare time, Dale loved stopping by the local clubs in the evenings for some laughs and a cold Stag. Of course, except for Sunday, when he didn’t drink. He had it figured out in his funny, mischievous way. He was doing better than everyone else because many would give up drinking for Lent. His philosophy was he was doing better because he did it every Sunday (52 days a year) versus everyone else doing it for 40 days. It was a great laugh for him and everyone he told this too. He was also the type of man who had a nickname for almost everyone. When you got one from him that was it, in his book you were forever this new person.
Cooking was another pastime Dale enjoyed. It is said he made the best kettle beef, dressing and ribeye’s around. When he cooked at Little Saline Sportsman’s Club, he was known for running three grills by himself and not letting anyone help because he had his system down to a science. On Christmas he would make homemade pizza like no other.
Although Dale never had children, he considered Nancy’s his as well. When their grandson, Alex made his entrance into this world it was one of the proudest days in his life. Spending time with his little buddy was a joy he treasured. He loved hearing Alex say, “papa up!” this was his que to lift him way up in the air.
He was an inspiration and guiding light to so many young men who knew him. Trevor and Tanner (among many others) will never forget the strength, lessons, love and care Dale showed them.
Dale was a member of several clubs over the years. In recent years he was an active member of the Perryville Elks Lodge #2701, Perry County Sportsman’s Club, Little Saline Sportsman’s Club and American Legion Post #133 Booster.
To know Dale was an honor and a privilege. He was a big, strong teddy bear who left a mark on this world that will never be forgotten by anyone who knew him.
Survivors include his significant other, Nancy Palmer of Perryville, MO; four brothers and one sister, Michael (Linda) Rellergert of Fruitland, MO, Leroy Rellergert of Perryville, MO, David (Peggy) Rellergert of Uniontown, MO, Roger Rellergert of Florissant, MO, Donna (Kevin) Brown of Apple Creek, MO; one grandson, Alexander Rulevish; five nephews; one niece; two great-nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Visitation will be from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm on Saturday, April 8, 2023 at Ford & Young Funeral Home in Perryville.
The Perryville Elks Wake Service will be at 1:00 pm, followed by a Celebration of Life Memorial Service at 1:15 pm with the Deacon Direk Hunt officiating on Saturday, April 8, 2023 at Ford & Young Funeral Home in Perryville.
Burial will be at St. Michael Catholic Cemetery in Applecreek, MO.
Memorial contributions may be given to St. Joseph Catholic Church in Apple Creek, MO.
Online condolences may be made at www.fordandyoungfuneralhome.com.
Ford & Young Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.