Dale Wanless

Dale Wanless, the eldest son of predeceased parents, Dorothy and Wilkie Wanless, rode off into the sunset on April 11, 2026, leaving behind brother Marty of Vancouver and Gary (Nancy) of Red Deer and their children Leissa (Jamie) - great nieces Madison and Samatha, a great nephew Tyler - Cory (Cora) - and great niece Maya - and Ethan.

 

Born on May 18, 1947 and raised in Edmonton, Alberta, Dale and his brothers relocated as their father’s employment opportunities changed. After completing his B.A. degree at Western, he went on to receive his Teaching Certificate. His booming, no-nonsense teacher voice still echoes in the halls from schools in Burlington, Brussels and Wingham. 

 

When he retired, he continued working on the Dockett farm on the outskirts of Brussels. Dale was a character who wore many hats. He will be remembered for driving the stagecoach in the production of The Outdoor Donnellys or a horse-drawn carriage for a newly-married couple. However, Dale’s first and greatest love was for his horses and dogs. 

 

The Wanless family truly appreciate the locals and neighbours Scott and Garth and close teacher friends Lois and Colin for supporting Dale over the years, especially during these last few difficult ones.

 

Friends said “Happy Trails’ to Dale on Tuesday, May 19 from 2-5 p.m. at Riverside Funeral Home Brussels, as he followed the Call of the West.

 

In lieu of flowers and as expressions of sympathy, donations in Dale’s memory may be made out to Adopt-a-Pet Rescue and sent to Box 340, Brussels, N0G 1H0.

 

Condolences may be left at riversidefuneralhome.ca

 

“It’s not the end of the trail for me. I’ve just travelled, you see, up ahead where the green pastures grow and the cool water streams dance as they flow.”