Dale Fletcher, 64, passed away on December 25th, 2022. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and an accomplished physician held in the highest esteem by his peers and patients.
Born and raised in Butler, Pennsylvania, Dale graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in 1986, specializing in interventional radiology, which he practiced in Saint Louis, Missouri, for 34 years. His insatiable curiosity drove him toward myriad pursuits in scuba diving, hiking, motorcycles, telescopes, and marksmanship.
Mark Twain taught us that the two most important days in a man’s life are the day he is born, and the day he learns why. For Dale, his “why” was always simple: to live unceasingly in the service of others. All who knew him can testify to his conspicuous and unconditional generosity.
So what, now, is the true measure of a man? Seneca taught us that it can be known by the worth of the things that he holds dear. Unequivocally for Dale, that was his family. May we always strive to be worthy of this.
Thus we find ourselves charged with living not only our own lives, but also the life of our father, our grandfather, our uncle, our brother, and our friend in our own, every day, to all that we meet.
In remembrance of him, let us always give freely to all in need, and know that the world is better because he lived in it.
Dale is survived by his wife Cary, his son Alexander, his son Adam and wife Sadie, his daughter Hannah, and his grandchildren Lucas, Grady, Ellie, and Grant.
A private family service will be held in his honor, followed by an open visitation at his home in Parkville, Missouri, at 1PM on January 7th, 2023. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Salvation Army.
I had the privilege of working with Dr. Fletcher at MoBap on and off for 20years. He was the Rad that you would want to be reading your own films because he demanded excellence from all the techs. He also knew how to have fun and would randomly buy lunch for the entire team! Such a generous man. When I took a leadership position with the ultrasound department, he said “I recommend prozac”. LOL.
We will truly miss him. Prayers for all his family.
From the moment I met “Fletch” as we liked to call him, I knew there was something incredibly special about this man. Every time he stepped into our department he brightened our day. He had the most kind of hearts and he brought that to our staff and his patients everyday. His understated generosity was known to all, although he never wanted the credit!! There was not a time I can remember when he did not ask about our families and listen with such interest in the lives of the people with whom he worked. To Cary, Alex, Adam, Sadie, and Hannah you have my deepest condolences. I can only imagine the void he will leave in your lives. My prayers for your peace and comfort during this difficult time, and hoping the beautiful memories will help sustain you all.
Sincerely, Kara Byrne (Interventional Radiology RN)
I worked with Doctor Fletcher in IR for over 2 decades. His ready smile and fun loving nature made for some happy times. The laughter he brought to us and pulled out of us made us “whistle while we worked “. He brought his A game to his patients and as has been stated he showed his generous and caring heart to patients and coworkers alike. He would often speak of his family and it was no secret that you all were first in his heart. My heart is saddened by our loss but I grieve for yours. I’ve no doubt he was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. As you walk through this season of sadness I pray the memories of his best times with you be a comfort to you and God give you peace that passes understanding and comfort your hearts as only He can.
Sincerely,
Linda Peters
IR RN
You have my deepest sympathy for your loss. Dr. Fletcher was a kind,generous,and great physician. He will be kindly remembered by those of us who worked with him. God Bless you
Hands down one of my favorite physicians to ever work with! Dr. Fletcher was patient, kind and took his time to educate everyone involved. Even though our days were long and at times stressful, he always managed to make me laugh. He would buy pizza for the department or randomly drop chocolates at the nurses station. When asked if he would like a slice, he would often say ‘no’ due to Cary having him on a strict diet. One thing for certain with Dr. Fletcher is his love for his family. He talked about them every shift. He was very proud of his son Alex and it was clear he would do just about anything for his daughter. He really melted when he had his first grand baby and when asked what he wanted to do when he retired, his first response was move closer to his grandchildren! Family always came first for him and I am so sorry for their loss.
Dr. Fletcher, my favorite curmudgeon, I will miss you tremendously and I can’t thank you enough for the knowledge and laughs we shared.
Sincerely,
Stacie Rombach
IR RN