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Dale John Sechser
In Memory Of

Dale John Sechser

11/12/1964 - 7/12/2026

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About Dale John Sechser

Dale John Sechser, 61, of Mesa, Arizona, passed away peacefully on the morning of July 12, 2026, at Banner Desert Medical Center. He was born on November 12,1964, in Hartford, South Dakota. Dale lived a full and vibrant life marked by devotion to family, his life partner Dave of 36 years, their son Nicholas, his many friends and nieces & nephews. Dale grew up in Hartford, South Dakota, and lived in Denver, Colorado, until he moved to Mesa, Arizona, nearly a decade ago.

Dale spent 24 years as a senior business consultant for Elevance Health (Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield). Dale’s pride and joy was his son Nicholas, his grandson Robert, daughter-in-law Angel and being a father & grandfather. Dale enjoyed cooking and caring for his two dogs Styles & Bernie and his cat Little-bit, who brought him great happiness and comfort throughout his illnesses.

Dale is survived by his lifelong partner Dave Russell; his Son Nicholas Russell, daughter-in-law Angel Russell & Grandson Robert Russell of Hinton Iowa. Sisters; Deb Schultz Jeannie Bunde and Rhonda Kuchta. Brothers; George Sechser, David Sechser and Kenny Sechser. Dale was predeceased in death by his parents, Ronald & Iona Sechser of Hartford South Dakota.

May Dale’s memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved him. In his honor, please consider donating to the A.S.P.C.A. or your local animal shelter. Per Dale’s wishes, he will be cremated and will be laid to rest in the family plot in Hartford, South Dakota. A virtual memorial service will be held at later date and time TBD.

Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.

Honoring Your Loved Ones

Condolences

9 comments
Nicholas Russell
2 days, 10 hours ago
It took some time for me to accept the loss of my biggest mentor in life. The man who protected me and taught me that there is a right time and place for everything. The guy who pushed me to continue when I wanted to fall and give in. He taught me that life is tough and how to be strong when things just don't go as planned. He did everything he could to prepare me for things I would never see coming if he didn't warn me. His involvement in my life was completely optional and he chose me as one of his own and decided he was always going to be in my corner no matter what even when I probably didn't deserve it. He was always there for both me and my dad through everything and there was never any questions when we needed him. He came into our life with a wonderful family who accepted me and my dad as family. Little do they know they all helped instill family values that I now utilize to raise my little family. I can't imagine what life would be like without his influence and guidance along with the Sechser family. He always told me to never cry when it is his time but to celebrate his life as his only goal was to watch me grow up and become a good man. Thank you Dale for showing me the value of true love. You will be missed deeply but never forgotten. Father.. I know you are close to the brokenhearted and rescue those who are crushed in spirit. Please wrap Your loving arms around me, my dad Dave, and our wonderful family and bring peace to our sleepless nights and hard days. Thank You for the gift of the love we shared with Dale. Help us treasure those memories, find strength to face each tomorrow, and trust that they are safely in Your care. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Deb Schultz
5 days, 7 hours ago
Dale was the best brother ever! Who thought your little brother would be your boss! He lived life to the fullest. Loved his humor and jokes. He loved family deeply. Was a great Uncle to my then young children.Will miss our phone calls.
Olivia Kell
1 month ago
Im so sorry to hear of this loss. I'm sure he will be missed. Condolences to Dave and all of his loved ones.
Missy
1 month ago
I’m so grateful I got to call you my uncle. I’ll always cherish the summers we shared and your check ins over the years. You’ll forever hold a special place in my heart. xoxo
Sheryl Allmann
1 month, 1 week ago
To Dale’s siblings, life partner, son and grandson, I’m so sorry for the loss you feel and hope the best memories give you solace. With love and hope, Your Servold Cousin, Sheryl
Patricia King
1 month, 1 week ago
Dale, I’m heartbroken that you had to leave us so soon but I know you are in a much better place. I am very grateful for our friendship, you will always have a place in my heart. Thank you for all the walks, for being the best swimming pool buddy and for all the laughs we shared. You will truly be missed.
Amy Ramirez
1 month, 1 week ago
My heart is broken at this loss... I worked with Dale off and on for his whole career at Anthem/Elevance, and considered him way more than a coworker.  We talked about a lot of things over the years, including our shared Midwest roots growing up as "farm kids" and considered our little team more of a family even though we never actually met in person.  Dale's no-nonsense approach to tasks and attention to detail will be missed by many people professionally, but even more his personality and the humor he brought to those of us who were fortunate enough to know him best.  He is also the reason I know the joys of Crumbl cookies, and I will think of him every time I indulge my sweet tooth. RIP, my friend.
Dave Russell
1 month, 1 week ago
Thank you, Dale, for 36 years of wonderful memories. I couldn't have chosen a better partner in life. You were an amazing partner, father and friend. I miss you so much. Back in the day... we were just a couple of struggling goofy kids. I'll never forget the first day I met you, with that striped shirt and those checkered polyester pants that were 6 different colors. We moved in with each-other less than two weeks later and the rest is history. Life won't be the same without you, but our memories will last a lifetime. Be with the angels now and rest in peace.
Frank Beltran
1 month, 2 weeks ago
It was a great pleasure to me in this wonderful person,RIP Dale fly with the angels, my friend 🙏🏽