Dale Alan Rice Obituary

Dale Alan Rice passed away on July 17, 2025. He was born to Clarence E. and Adonna A. Rice on September 16, 1947, in Bethesda, Maryland. His family moved to Midwest City, OK, in 1950 and later to Bartlesville, OK, in 1953.

Dale graduated from College High School in Bartlesville in 1965. In 1966, Dale enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and proudly served as a combat Marine during the Vietnam War. A member of the 1st Marine Division, he carried out multiple missions under some of the most difficult and dangerous conditions of the war.

He was wounded in action and awarded the Purple Heart for his bravery and sacrifice. He was honorably discharged in 1969. During his service, he also stood guard in Washington, D.C., as part of the honor guard for President Richard Nixon's inauguration.

On December 21, 1970, Dale married the love of his life, Debra B. Rice, in Nowata, OK. They first settled in Bartlesville, then moved to Sperry in 1973, and finally made their home in Owasso in 1978, where they remained. They had two children: Misti Michelle Rice and her wife, Jill Hartwig, of Rochester Hills, MI; and Casey Emmett Rice of Owasso, OK, and his fiancée, Sara Mueller.

Dale was immensely proud of his children and embraced their partners with an open heart. He was a grandfather to two granddaughters, Avery Belle Hartwig-Rice of Rochester Hills, MI, and Hunter Elizabeth Rice of Bartlesville, OK; and three grandsons, Jacob James and Adrian Carter Hartwig-Rice and Alston James Sullivan, all of Rochester Hills. He also had a great-granddaughter, Hadleigh Isabelle Pappe of Bartlesville, OK.

Dale was known throughout Tulsa County and beyond as one of the finest roofers in the region. He owned and operated Dale Rice Roofing before passing the business to his son, Casey. Even after retiring, Dale continued to work—not out of obligation, but out of a true love for the craft.

His precision, high standards, and perfectionism earned him a reputation for excellence that still endures. His hands built more than rooftops; they built trust, quality, and a legacy that Casey proudly carries on today, having inherited his father's skill, work ethic, and commitment to doing the job right. In his younger years, Dale was a skilled trap shooter, widely respected for his precision and composure.

He even traveled to Taiwan to represent his community in an international shooting competition as part of a Sister City tour. In later years, Dale dedicated time to helping the homeless and less fortunate, always ready with a kind word and a helping hand. One of the most unique and enduring parts of Dale's life was his bond with his dog, Shelby.

More than just a pet, Shelby was his sidekick—often spotted climbing ladders and walking rooftops right alongside him. Their partnership was one of a kind and brought smiles to many who saw them in action. Dale was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Debra; his father, Clarence; his mother, Adonna; and his brother, Dennis.

He is survived by his children, Misti and Casey; his grandchildren and great-granddaughter; his brother, Roger N. Rice and his wife, Gerry; as well as a large extended family and many lifelong friends. His family was his greatest joy, and he loved each of them deeply. May his memory serve as a reminder to care for one another and to reach out, even in the darkest moments.

His legacy lives on in the lives he built, the family he cherished, and the work he took pride in every single day. Dale's funeral is scheduled for Friday, July 25 at 11:00 AM at: Johnson Funeral Home 222 N Cincinnati Ave Sperry, OK 74073