Dale Harold Bochenek

Born on August 30, 1932 in Toledo, Ohio, he was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Donna Jean Foos Bochenek, his parents Joseph Bochenek and Mary Nowak Bochenek, and three of his siblings: Ann Parent, Mary Brannigan, and Florence Schmidt.

Dale was baptized in the Catholic Church and was devoted to the teachings of the Catholic faith throughout his life. He graduated with a Bachelor degree in Business Administration from University of Toledo in 1956. In college, he was an Army ROTC Cadet, and upon graduation, continued serving his country as a lieutenant in the United States Army. In June 1955, he met the love of his life, Donna, on a blind date. The attraction was immediate and they were united in Holy Matrimony in June 1956. They moved to Michigan in 1964 where they raised their five children.

Dale owned and operated several small businesses throughout his career. He loved to play golf and had a passion for classic cars and his favorite sports teams. He had a beautiful voice and sang in the church choir for over 40 years. Dale was a jack of all trades. He was well versed in many subjects and loved to share his knowledge with others and lend a helping hand. He was a patient teacher and extended his talents and precision to the home. He could repair anything around the house. Dale enjoyed photography and cheering on his favorite football, basketball and baseball teams. However, his biggest passion was family and he attended all of his children’s sporting events, music performances, and school activities. Dale and Donna retired to Florida and later relocated to Cary, NC.

He is survived by his children: Ellen (Peter) Naruns, Los Altos, CA; Laura (Mark) Smith, Valrico, FL; Ann (John) Gbruoski, Raleigh, NC; David (Sarah) Bochenek, Marquette, MI; and Catherine Bochenek, Flowery Branch, GA. He is also survived by six grandchildren: Natalie Naruns, Nathaniel Smith, Nicholas Naruns, Jessica Smith, James Gbruoski, and Kaitlyn Gbruoski. Dale is also survived by his sister Jane Darcangelo, and many nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church in Cary on Friday, March 22, 2024 at 11:00am. Dale will be interred next to his wife at Raleigh Memorial Park. The Mass will be livestreamed, to join, use the link in the services box below.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Dale’s memory to St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, or to Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN), by using the links below, under 'Donations', or to a charity of choice focusing on veterans.

If you would like to leave a favorite memory / story of Dale, or a message of condolence for his family, you may do so below, within 'Add a Memory'.