Final Salute

Dale Lee Kennard, beloved husband, father, papa, son, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on June 11, 2026, at the age of 68. He was born on May 13, 1958, in Dayton, Ohio.

Dale was a man whose life was defined by love, service, and laughter. His generous heart was evident in the countless ways he helped others, never hesitating to lend a hand to anyone in need. He found great joy in making people smile, whether through a well-timed joke or his unmistakable laugh that often left him with tears in his eyes. His warmth, kindness, and sense of humor touched the lives of all who knew him.

Dale proudly served his country in the United States Navy and was especially proud of his service as a Navy Seabee. His dedication, hard work, and commitment to serving others carried through every aspect of his life, both during and after his military career.

He was preceded in death by his father William Kennard, his mother Betty (Fearing) Adams; father-in-law, Kenneth Fickenwirth; brother Mike McGinnis; sister Carmen Riebesell; brother in law’s Raymond Tipton, and John Schulke; sister in-law, Cathy Fickenwirth.

Dale leaves behind the love of his life and devoted wife of 44 years, Victoria “Vicky” Kennard. He is also survived by his mother in-law, Patricia Bunch; sisters Peg Schulke and Gail Tipton as well as children: Dan and Tiffany Kennard, David and Tammie Kennard, Jamie Kennard and fiancé Amber Chester, Donnie Kennard and Kasie Mounce. He was a proud and loving Papa to McKinlee, Brandt, Brealyn, Max, Jud, Braxton, Dax, Josey, Aubrey, and Jethro; sister in-law’s, Judy McGinnis, Debra Fickenwirth and Kendra Fickenwirth; brother in-law, Steven Fickenwirth.

In addition to his immediate family, Dale leaves behind many nieces, nephews, best friend, Mike Ankeny; and dear friends whom he considered family. His love, guidance, and friendship enriched the lives of so many and created memories that will be cherished forever.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at the Charity Missionary Baptist Church in Bismarck, Missouri., at 10:00 A.M. with Pastor Lee Miller officiating. The family will be doing a Celebration of Life for Dale at a later date.

Though Dale’s presence will be deeply missed, his legacy of love, laughter, service, and generosity will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. The lessons he taught, the stories he shared, and the love he gave so freely will remain a lasting gift to his family and friends.

His presence may be gone, but his love will always be felt and remembered.

Dale’s family finds comfort in knowing that while they grieve his passing, they celebrate a life well-lived, a life devoted to God, family, country, and others. He will be forever loved and never forgotten.