Dale Bernard Hollister, 65, of Lowell, Michigan, unexpectedly went to be with his Savior on April 19, 2025. Born May 3, 1959, in Battle Creek, he was the son of Bernard and Margaret (Zimmerman) Hollister, who preceded him in death.
In 1982, Dale married the love of his life, Diane (Boddy) Hollister. Together, they built a life rooted in quiet strength, deep faith, and unwavering love for family. Dale was a devoted husband, father, and “Grandpa Dale” to his grandchildren. He is survived by his children, Erin Joy Hollister and Tim (Erin Elizabeth) Hollister; foster son, Cory (Mandi) Morgan; and grandchildren, Chloe and Carson Hollister. He is also survived by his brother, Rowland (Teresa) Hollister.
Dale built a career as a skilled machinist and tool and die maker. He worked at Union Pump in Battle Creek from 1977 to 1985 before beginning his journeyman apprenticeship with General Motors in Kalamazoo. In 1997, his work with GM brought him and his family to the Grand Rapids area, where he continued until retiring in 2000. After retirement, Dale continued to serve others through his work as a Lowell Area Schools bus driver and lunchroom staff member, where he was known to students as “Mr. Dale” — a steady, kind presence who made a lasting impact on students and staff alike.
He loved the outdoors, especially hunting and shooting, and he never passed up a chance to spend time with his family. Some of his favorite memories were traveling with Diane around the country and visiting their kids and grandkids.
Dale grew up attending Emmett Street Missionary Church in Battle Creek, Mich., serving in many roles until he moved to Lowell, Mich. There, he attended and served for many years as a trustee at Evergreen Missionary Church. He also grew up faithfully attending Brown City Missionary Church Camp and loved hearing updates from visiting missionaries. A quiet man with a big heart, he was a strong listener, a steady encourager and someone whose hugs and back rubs were unmatched. One of his favorite Bible verses was Isaiah 40:31, a reflection of the hope and strength he lived by.
True to his character, Dale fulfilled his desire to become an organ donor, extending his gift of life and helping many more people even beyond his death. His loving and generous spirit will be missed by many.
The family will greet friends and relatives from 2-4pm & 6-8pm on Friday, May 2, 2025, at Evergreen Missionary Church, 10501 Settlewood Drive SE, Lowell, Michigan 49331. Funeral services will be held at 11am on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at the church, with visitation one hour prior. (In honor of Dale, guests are invited to wear a flannel shirt — his signature style.) Interment will take place at 10am on Monday, May 5, 2025 at Floral Lawn Memorial Gardens in Battle Creek, Michigan.
Memorial Contributions can be directed to Evergreen Missionary Church Building Fund or the Brown City Missionary Church Camp, 8700 Wilcox Rd, Brown City, MI 48416.
3 Responses
I am so sorry for the unexpected loss of your beloved husband of 43 years, Diane.
I am praying for the peace of God that passes all understanding to rule and reign in your innermost being. We never know what tomorrow will bring for those of us who love the Lord. All I know is that Jeremiah 29:11 tells me that the Lord has a plan and a purpose for my life as His child and I just have to trust that He knows what is best for me at any given moment.
God bless and comfort you, friend! (We sat beside each other at Diane’s stamping class)
I grew up with Erin Hollister, Dale’s daughter, and count her as one of my life-long dearest friends still. Mr and Mrs Hollister (as I will forever think of them both) were so wonderful to me growing up, and their home was a beautiful place to visit. I went on vacation with them as a family, and spent many an afternoon and weekend at their home, just hanging out and living life.
This loss / it’s so profound, unexpected, but I also know Mr. Hollister touched so many peoples lives in a positive, impactful way. Just like he did mine.
To the Hollister family: I am so deeply sorry, that this happened. But I am also deeply grateful to have known your father and husband and grandpa. He was a good, good man, full of genuine kindness and goodness.
He will be missed.
Sincerely, and with love ~ Anna Street
Erin,
We’re continuing to pray for you, please let us know how else we can support you. In lieu of flowers, a donation was made to Evergreen Missionary Church’s building fund in Dale’s honor.
Blessings
Your Redeemer Family