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GIRARD -- Dale F. Ilich, 77, passed peacefully into heaven on Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026, at St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, after a brief illness.
Dale was born Sept. 6, 1949, in Youngstown. He was the son of the late Steve Ilich and the late Irene Fillers and was a lifelong resident of the Mahoning Valley.
Dale attended Ursuline High School, graduating in 1967.
Dale was a proud veteran of the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged from the United States Army on Jan. 1, 1976.
Being an avid horse racing fan, Dale attended the Kentucky Derby many times throughout his life. He also enjoyed Ohio State football, attending many games, including the Rose Bowl. His other interests included going to different casinos with his mom, Irene; watching any pro football game; and Cleveland Guardians baseball. He was also an avid animal lover. His greatest enjoyment came from spending time with his family and friends, especially his stepdaughter, Allison, and granddaughters, Brienna and Taylor.
Dale was a master welder and was employed by Republic Steel and later Girard Machine Company, where he enjoyed a career of 30 years.
Dale leaves to cherish his memory his sister, Doreen (Steve) McCall; his brother, Brian Ilich; his stepdaughter, Allison (Mike) Russell; granddaughters, Brienna Craig and Taylor Russell; great-grandchildren, Ryker, Swayzee and Myah; and many extended family members and friends.
Following cremation, a celebration of Dale's life will take place at 1 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 24, 2026, at Amen Corner, 20 W. Main St., Girard.
Those wishing to honor Dale's memory may make donations to The Healthy Hearts and Paws Project, 909 Martin Luther King Blvd. SW, Warren, OH 44485.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Kinnick Funeral Home in Girard.
Visit kinnickfuneralhome.com to send condolences to Dale's family.
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