Dale Virgil Wiltse, age 66, of Roscommon, passed away peacefully, on Thursday, November 2, 2023, at his home in the presence and comfort of his family, after a courageous six-year battle with cancer.
Dale was born March 18, 1957, in Saginaw, Michigan, the son of Lee and Virgilene (Wilson) Wiltse. Dale spent his formative years in the Saginaw area. The family cherished moments at their Higgins Lake residence whenever possible.
Later, the Wiltse family relocated to Roscommon and founded North Central Welding, a business that Dale played a pivotal role in establishing, supporting, and expanding, eventually evolving into NuCraft Metal Products.
Dale took great pride in constructing and living in his underground home that he built into a ridge on Pioneer Hill. Dale possessed a wealth of knowledge spanning many subjects. His deep passion for fishing on Higgins Lake was evident, as he could skillfully discuss the nuances of successful fishing with anyone. Additionally, he thoroughly enjoyed following and watching football, finding immense joy in the game.
Dale will be greatly missed by family and friends. He is survived by his father, Lee Wiltse of Roscommon; brother, Ron (Wendy) Wiltse of Roscommon; niece, Rachel Wiltse of Ann Arbor; nephew, Drew Wiltse of Grand Rapids; aunts, Jean Harcourt and Wilma Tippner; uncle, Jim Tippner; and several cherished cousins.
Dale is preceded in death by his mother, Virgilene, and his nephew, Michael Wiltse.
Family and friends will gather from 6:00-8:00 PM, on Tuesday, November 7, 2023, at Wagner and Walsh Funeral Directors, 143 Lake Street, Roscommon, Michigan 48653. The Funeral will be held at 11:00 AM, on Wednesday, November 8, 2023, at Good Shepherd United Methodist Church of the North, 149 Robinson Lake Road, Roscommon, Michigan 48653.
Dale will be laid to rest following the funeral, at Gerrish Township Cemetery, Roscommon, Michigan.
If so desired, the family prefers memorial contributions be made in Dale’s name to the American Cancer Society.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner and Walsh Funeral Directors, Roscommon.
