Dale William Midgley, aged 84, died peacefully after a prolonged and courageous battle with cancer on May 18, 2024, in his son, Benjamin’s, home in Kennebunkport.
Dale was born to Herbert and Margarite Midgley on March 3, 1940. He attended Brooks School in North Andover, Massachusetts, and earned a bachelor’s and master’s in education from Boston University. It was at Boston University where he met his future wife, Claudette Thierry. They were married in June 1962.
Upon graduating with his bachelor’s degree, Dale served a captain in the United States Army. The couple settled in Newburyport, Massachusetts, and later Kennebunk. They shared a love of history and amassed an impressive collection of antique grandfather clocks – none of which displayed the correct or a synchronized time but chimed confidently throughout the day (and night). They also shared a love of animals, including a retired racing greyhound named Sweathog who enjoyed sneaking sips from Dale’s morning coffee.
After working as a media coordinator for Northern Essex Community College, Dale pursued a career in real estate. He was a well-respected broker and national trainer for Century 21 and Wiechert Realtors and was valued for his integrity and impeccable reliability. Upon his retirement, he devoted his time and energies to helping the American Legion improve the lives and circumstances of veterans. Passionate about giving to others and honoring those who served, Dale was regarded as a selfless and sage “servant leader” and tireless advocate for veteran causes and received the “Legionnaire of the Year Award – for the State of Maine” in 2021.
Services will be held at the Kennebunk/Kennebunkport American Legion Hall at a future date to be determined by the family. He is survived by Claudette Thierry, 84, his son, Benjamin Midgely, 54, and his daughter, Dr. Nicole Summers, 60.
Online condolence messages can be submitted at the Chad E. Poitras Cremation and Funeral Service website, www.mainefuneral.com.
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