Dale Wayne Grimes

Dale Wayne Grimes, 79, of South Bend, IN, passed away peacefully to join his Lord and Savior in Heaven on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at Viva Memory Care of South Bend.

He was born on October 4, 1946, in South Bend, to the late Donald Woodrow and Leona Elizabeth “Dutch” (Fisher) Grimes. He is survived by his cherished wife of 55 years, Deborah Lynn Grimes; his two beautiful daughters, Charity Grimes-Ford (Michael Ford) and Victoria Grimes (William Karling), both of Granger, Indiana; his grandson, Andrew Dale Ford; his beloved sister, Debbie (Kim) Jones of Marion, Indiana; and his brother, Jerry (Yvonne) Grimes of Bartow, Florida. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Known as "Paw Paw" by his best buddy, Andrew, this grandson and grandpa duo was inseparable. Their love for one another continued to grow on the many trips to the Smoky Mountains; they could always spot a black bear before anyone else. Dale’s passion for photography allowed him to capture both the beauty of nature and the joy of their time together.

While Dale treasured the Smoky Mountains, his greatest joy was spending time with his family—whether they were gathered for a holiday, working in the garden, or lending a hand with home projects at one another's houses. A true teacher of trades, Dale loved sharing his talents and wisdom with his sons-in-law, grandson, and daughters.

After graduating from John Adams High School, Dale was immediately drafted. He chose to follow in his father’s footsteps by joining the U.S. Navy, where he served with pride during the Vietnam War onboard the USS Epping Forest and USS Walke DD-723. During his time on the USS Walke DD-723, he met lifelong friends, John, Phil, and Leon.

After completing his time in the service, his guardian angels returned him safely to the States to begin the next chapter of his life. His working years as a millwright included South Bend Stamping, CTS, and the H2 Plant at A.M. General. He was known  throughout his work career as a man who could be counted on to lend a hand and solve a problem. His strong work ethic and practical skills were matched by his generous spirit and easygoing nature, which made him a valued coworker and leader.

Dale’s life was defined by his faith and a quiet dedication to those around him. Since joining Gospel Center Missionary Church in the early '80s, he carried his Christian values into every endeavor with kindness and humility. One of his proudest contributions was serving as the on-site manager for the new sanctuary project, where he worked hand-in-hand with Majority Builders. Dale knew families would enjoy worshipping and hospitality in his church home. Whether he was fulfilling his duties as a Trustee or acting as a welcoming 'unofficial tour guide' for new faces, Dale’s commitment to his church family was a true reflection of his heart for service.

In the final years of his life, Dale took great joy in his visits to Milton Village, where he once again became the unofficial tour guide, welcoming everyone who walked through the door. He shared a special bond with the caring staff, who enriched his days through music, gardening, and community. Of course, you could almost always find Dale at the billiards table, ready to challenge anyone to a game of pool.

In the final weeks of his life, Dale serendipitously lived out his days surrounded by his new family who cared for him day and night at Viva Memory Care. The abundance of love he received there was a gift for which his family is forever grateful.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 at Gospel Center Missionary Church, 930 S. 30 th Street, South Bend, IN. Friends may visit with the family from 10:00-11:00 am at the church prior to the service. Palmer Funeral Home—River Park Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Gospel Center Building Fund, 930 S. 30th Street, South Bend, IN 46615, or to Milton Adult Day Services, a not-for-profit agency dedicated to caring for those with Alzheimer’s and dementia, located at 111 Sunnybrook Court, South Bend, IN 46637.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.