Dale Edward Pruett

Dale Edward Pruett, 85 of Apache Junction, Arizona and formerly of the Abingdon area, passed away at 6:50 p.m. Thursday, January 19, 2017 at his home with his family present. 

  He was born March 5, 1931 in Knoxville to Leo and Alice Nelson Pruett.  He grew up in Knoxville and Oquawka.  He graduated from G & O High School in Gladstone in 1949.  Dale worked with his father, farming.  On October 28, 1950, he married Patricia Gibson of Biggsville at the Grace Methodist Church in Burlington, Iowa. 

  He joined the Air Force in September of 1951.  He served for five years and was honorably discharged in February of 1955 with the rank of A-1^st Class.

  He farmed until 1980 and then went to work for the State of Illinois, retiring in 1995. 

  Dale was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Alice Pruett and one brother, Howard Pruett.

 He is survived by his wife, Patricia of Apache Junction, Arizona; his sons, Michael (Mona) of Queen Creek, Arizona, David of Cameron and Gregory (Wendy) of Cave Creek, Arizona; his daughter, Gayle of Phoenix, Arizona; stepsons, Kenny and Patrick Ryan; brother, Wilbur (Barbara) of Mt. Pleasant, Iowa; sister, Darlene Pruett of Stronghurst; eight grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

  Cremation was accorded.  To celebrate his life, graveside service with Military Rites will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 22, 2017 at the Biggsville Cemetery in Biggsville, Illinois.  The family will receive relatives and friends in a time of food and fellowship from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday afternoon at the Abingdon American Legion.  Hinchliff-Pearson-West Abingdon Chapel is assisting the family with local arrangements.

  Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.