Dale Thomas Dew

Dale Thomas Dew, 66, of Louisa, VA has “slipped the surly bounds of earth” and passed away on May 28, 2024 at UVA Hospital. He leaves behind a legacy marked by valor, honor, humor and dedication to those he loved. Born on May 2, 1958, in Beckley, WV, Dale leaves behind his loving wife, Kim Beekman-Dew, his daughter, Kaitlin Dew Godek, and son-in-law, Matthew Godek, his brothers Danny Dew and Darren Dew, nieces and nephews and many friends, from his time in the service, through to his work at UVA Information Security program.

Second only to his love of being a husband and father, Dale was most proud of his accomplishments in the US Army as an Apache helicopter pilot and instructor and serving in the post Desert Storm “Operation Provide Comfort” in Iraq, for which he was awarded an air medal and the Honorable Order of St. Michael. Before his time as a pilot, he had served in the US Air Force and as an officer for the Chesterfield County Police Department. Dale graduated from Auburn University with a degree in Information Systems, and further served Army Aviation by helping develop and manage the flight simulator program, Flight School XXI, at Ft. Rucker, AL. At his passing, he was director of information security engineering for University of Virginia.

Tragically, Dale’s life was cut short as a result of a service-related illness, a relentless adversary that he faced with courage, resilience and a wry sense of humor for many years. Though he may have lost that battle, his bravery, strength and compassionate spirit will be an enduring legacy that will live on in the hearts and memories of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

In addition to his admirable military and civilian careers, Dale leaves behind a cherished legacy of love and devotion to his family and friends. He was a beloved spouse, parent, sibling, and friend, whose presence brought joy and comfort to those who knew him. It will be a difficult task to go forward without his steadying and loving presence. He was greatly admired and loved.

As Dale embarks on his final journey, we take solace in the belief that he now resides in Valhalla, the hallowed hall of heroes, where his valor and sacrifice are forever celebrated. Though he may have left this earthly realm, his spirit will continue to soar among the clouds that he loved.

“May the Valkyries welcome you and lead you through Odin’s great battlefield. May they sing your name with love and fury, so that we might hear it rise from the depths of Valhalla and know that you’ve taken your rightful place at the table of kings. For a great man has fallen: A warrior. A husband. A father. A friend.”

Dale will have a private cremation and plans for a memorial services will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or to the Til Valhalla Project in honor of Dale’s lifelong commitment to taking care of his brothers and sisters in arms and all the people he loved.