Birth date: Feb 1, 1953 Death date: Feb 17, 2025
Dale Martin Petroff, 72, of Fredericksburg, VA passed away peacefully in Mansfield, Texas surrounded by his loving family. He fought esophageal cancer valiantly, with courage and strength. Dale was born in Marshall, MI to Pondale Read Obituary
Rest in Peace Dale. Your DTRA Family.
A day with Papa Dale:
I know others may have called him by a different name, but that is who he was to me. He received that title a good twenty plus years ago when I first came into his life.
To me he was always a kind, intelligent, strong, and brave man; And don’t forget history loving. So, of course, the day that sticks out the most to me, was when he took my brother and me to Washington, D.C.
We took the train into the city, which was exciting and new for me. We were told of his usual commutes to and from D.C. It all seemed so ‘big city,’ yet to him it was another day. Although, he seemed to enjoy telling us all about it. Once there we wandered the city, found a few Smithsonian Museums (Air & Space and American History), went to the Arlington National Cemetery, saw The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, went to the Lincoln Memorial, found some lunch from a street vendor, got to see outside of the White House (from a distance of course), and made our way back to hop the train. It was a day full of excitement, knowledge sharing, joy, and intrigue. He of course would explain all about each place we visited and the stories (history) behind it. The Air & Space museum, I think may have been his favorite part of the day, as well as my brother’s.
Remembering this day and the many other sweet moments, stories, and laughter shared over the years, is what keeps his memory alive. I am grateful. He is so missed. ❤️
CPT Dale Petroff was the Commander of the US ARMY Reserve unit 428th MP CO (CS). I was his 1SG for 2.5 years. We connected from day one and have remained brothers for over 40 years. I could not have pick a better CO than him. When we meet up we salute each other out of respect. Our conversations would pick up where we left off as if time has stood still. Thank you to his family for allowing me to be with him. On behalf of the members of the 428th MP CO, we will miss him.
CPT Petroff, Rest In Peace Brother, I've got the watch.
Etta and family, we are so sorry for your loss, Dale will be missed by many. May our lord Jesus give you the peace you need to move forward. Our love and prayers are with you all.
Julius & Joyce Meeks
My wonderful brother, I cannot believe you are gone. We did not get enough time together. I have a lifetime of memories but it is not enough. You were supposed to get that ranch so I could name all the animals so you could not sell them. I will miss you more than you will ever know. My heart is broken. I know you are with Gram and Craig and that gives me some comfort. I love you so much always and forever Jayette🙏🙏
