Dale E. Ranck, Jr., 98, of Milton, PA went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, at his residence. He was born August 8, 1925, in Milton PA, the son of the late Dale E. and Hilda Krum Ranck.
He graduated from Milton High School in 1943. Dale graduated from ECKELS College of Mortuary Science in 1949 in Philadelphia and took several courses at the National Foundation Funeral Service in Evanston Illinois. He graduated from Bucknell University in 1951.
Dale’s commitment to serving his country was evident through his service in the United States Navy during World War II. He attended Boot Camp at Sampson NY and then Corps School at Bainbridge MD and was certified in Physical Therapy from the Naval Hospital in Philadelphia.
Dale was preceded in death by his devoted wife of 67 years, Janet Campbell Ranck whom he married February 2, 1951.
He embraced his role as a funeral director and owner of The Dale E. Ranck Funeral Service, Inc. in Milton PA from 1949 until his retirement in 1997. He was the successor of his father, Dale E. Ranck, Sr., who started the business in 1914. Throughout his career, he brought comfort and solace to countless families in their time of grief, easing their burden with his calm demeanor and unwavering support.
Dale was a member of First Baptist Church of Milton where he held various church offices. His memberships were numerous, including the Milton Rotary Club for 60 years, a 70-year member of the Milton Masonic Lodge 256 where he served as Past Master. He was a member and past President of the Central Pennsylvania Funeral Directors Association; served as co-chairman of the Milton Sesquicentennial in 1967 and was a member of Milton American Legion Post #41. Dale enjoyed the Tuesday morning Coffee Club at Greystone in Milton, as well as the Thursday morning men’s coffee group that had met at the previous Checkered Flag in Milton. He enjoyed playing tennis and attending Bucknell basketball games.
He is survived by one son; David E. Ranck of Palm Desert California and one daughter, Susan E. Hiller and her husband R. Michael of Milton PA. Also surviving are three grandchildren; Jamison D. Hiller and his wife Rebecca of Milton PA, Kaitlin E. Martin and her husband Zane of Milton PA and Aaron M. Hiller, D.O. and his wife Breanna of Leola PA and four great-grandchildren; Levi Martin, Sophie Martin, Emmerson Hiller and Jonah Hiller. Also surviving is one loving niece, Cynthia Ranck Person, Esquire.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Judge Samuel C. Ranck.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a A Celebration of Dale’s life to be held Sunday evening, January 21, 2024, at 7:00 PM at First Baptist Church of Milton 316 Golf Course Road Milton PA with his pastor, the Reverend Jamie Dries officiating. Friends will be received from 5:00 – 6:45 PM. Masonic Rites will be held prior to the service by the Milton Masonic Lodge A.F. & A.M. Burial will be private in the Milton Cemetery with full military rites accorded by the American Legion Post 40 Honor Guard and the United States Navy Honor Guard.
Dale leaves behind a legacy of compassion, professionalism, and dedication to his community and to his family.
Memorial Contributions may be made in Dale’s memory to the First Baptist Church of Milton 316 Golf Course Road Milton PA 17847 or Milton High School Alumni Association Scholarships PO Box 515 Milton PA 17847.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Visneski Funeral Home 42 W Mahoning Street Danville PA 17821. www.visneski.com