Dale Fish

Dale Gilbert Fish went home to be with his Lord and Savior June 27, 2023.

He was born May 5, 1947 to Earl and Electa Fish near Zalma, Missouri. He lived in several locations throughout his childhood, but called Zalma home for most of his life. He surrendered to preach as a young man and was called as interim pastor of his home church, Zalma Missionary Baptist Church. They later called him as pastor. The church ordained him Aug. 25, 1968. He served there faithfully until his death. His wife, Judy Ruth (Owens) Fish served at his side from the time of their marriage, Nov. 22, 1969. Together they attended most meetings of the Cane Creek Baptist Association, the Baptist Missionary Association of Missouri, and the Baptist Missionary Association of America. Judy preceded Dale in death Feb. 3, 2023. He was a long serving clerk of the Cane Creek Baptist Association and the BMA of Missouri, later serving as the presiding officer of the association, as well as serving on various committees in each of the associations.

Dale had a love for botany and enjoyed growing all kinds of plants. He also worked in fire protection at Proctor & Gamble for many years. He was a skilled builder and built the house where he and Judy raised their children. When he retired from Proctor & Gamble, he began work building their retirement home with the occasional help of his family. He had plans to complete the house up until shortly before his death.

Dale served on the Zalma R-5 School Board and was the president of the board for many years.

Dale is survived by his daughter, Susan (Greg) Peninger of Leander, Texas; son, Timothy Fish of Fort Worth, Texas; sister, Helen DeClue; brother, Jon Fish; grandsons, Joshua Peninger, Adam Peninger, Luke Peninger; and many loved family and friends.

Visitation was held from 5-8 p.m. Thursday, June 29, 2023, at Morgan Funeral Chapel in Advance, Missouri. A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, June 30, 2023, at the chapel. Burial will follow at Berrong Cemetery near Zalma, Missouri.