Dale Fillenwarth

(From Simpson Funeral Home)

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dale Lavern Fillenwarth on August 7, 2025. Born in Leon, IA on September 5, 1954, Dale touched the lives of many with his compassionate spirit, unique sense of humor, and humble nature. 

Known for his captivating storytelling, Dale would often regale friends and family with tales of the "good old days". His lively anecdotes, usually punctuated with his signature wit and generous laugh, were a testament to a life lived fully, with a heart that was always open. As Mark Twain once said, "The secret of success is to make your vocation your vacation." For Dale, his occupation as a skilled carpenter was not just a job, but a passion, a creative outlet where he put his heart and soul.

Dale was a man of many talents and interests. Whether he was working on a new renovation project, fishing by the river, tending to his farm, or seated at the kitchen table engrossed in a deep conversation, Dale was always completely present in the moment. He had a flair for transforming wood into beautiful structures, and his work can be seen in many homes and businesses that he helped build over the years. His love for motorcycles, particularly his Harleys, was well-known and he found great joy in hitting the open road. Dale was also a generous man, always ready to lend a helping hand or share his ice cream.

Above all, he loved his family. He is survived by his daughters, Ginger Clark, Allison Palmer, and Shelby Palmer, his son, Justin Olson, and stepson, John Simon, his grandchildren, Theotrie, Keylieanna, Kenny, Sabrina, Dixie, Jasmine, and Serenity, his sisters Cammy Golly and Patricia Veirs, along with many other loving family members and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon Fillenwarth and Darlene Gilmore, his step-father Willard Gilmore, and his beloved daughter, Jessica Simon-Fillenwarth. 

Dale's legacy lives on in the hearts of his children, grandchildren, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him. His life was a testament to the quote, "The best portion of a good man's life is his little, nameless, unremembered acts of kindness and of love." - William Wordsworth.

Dale was a man who lived his life with compassion, humor, humility, and generosity and will truly be missed.

May he ride on...

The family will hold private funeral services and interment in Carterville Cemetery.

Funeral arrangements are under the personal care and compassion of Simpson Funeral Home staff in Webb City.