The family of Dale Francis Belonga of St. Ignace, MI announces his passing, and invites all who knew him to remember him here.
What follows is written with love, by those who knew him best.
There are losses that teach us the weight of a life.
Dale Francis Belonga, age 87, of St. Ignace, Michigan, died on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at home with his family surrounding him. He was born on August 11, 1938, in Moran, Michigan, to Phillip and Esther (Becker) Belonga.
Dale grew up in St. Ignace and graduated from LaSalle High School. After graduation, he began working and later attempted to enlist in the military but was unfortunately declined due to a heart murmur. He went on to work for the City of St. Ignace Department of Public Works and later transitioned to the water department after the City of St. Ignace acquired it. Dale dedicated 40½ years to the City before retiring. During this time, Dale met Delina Rose Proton in Engadine, Michigan, and the two were married on November 12, 1960, in Naubinway, Michigan. They made their home in St. Ignace.
Dale was a member of the Straits Area Sportsman Club.
Dale enjoyed fishing, riding his side-by-side, and going for drives with his dog, Rusty, by his side. He especially enjoyed spending time at his cabin in Rexton, Michigan, and camping with Delina.
Dale is survived by his sons, Clifford Belonga of St. Ignace and Bill (Nisa) Belonga of Rexton; grandchildren, Peyton, Dennis, Billy and Hana; and sisters, Patricia Martin and Judy (John) Winandy.
Dale was preceded in death by his wife, Delina; parents, Phillip and Esther; daughter-in-law, Wendy Belonga; and siblings, Nedra (Daniel) Hough, Phylis (Don) King, Ronald (Lillian) Belonga, Billy Belonga, Janice (Alan) Werkheiser, Joan Adams, and Michael Belonga.
A memorial gathering will be held on Thursday, May 21, 2026, from 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM at Family Life Funeral Homes, 999 S. State Street St. Ignace, MI 49781. The memorial service will follow immediately at 11:00 AM.
Dale's final resting place will be at Lakeside Cemetery in St. Ignace, Michigan.
Condolences may be given to the family at www.familylifefh.com.
