Dale First, 72, lifelong resident of Dowagiac, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 17, 2025 in Saint Joseph. He was born March 8, 1953 in Dowagiac, MI to Herbert and Elsie (Disterheft) First.
The family will receive guests from 2pm until a celebration of life service beginning at 4pm, Friday, November 21, 2025 at Clark Chapel, 405 Center St., Dowagiac. Interment will be held privately. Memorial contributions may be given to Future Farmers of America, www.michiganffa.org.
Born and raised in Dowagiac, Dale grew up on his family’s farm, originally homesteaded in 1854. His love for the land was formed early, working alongside relatives in the same fields his ancestors farmed for generations. He attended the First School through seventh grade and later graduated from Eau Claire High School. Dale went on to earn an associate degree in Agricultural Science from Southwestern Michigan College.
Dale was a dedicated farmer through and through. He grew fruit, vegetables, and grain, and became especially known throughout the community for his high-quality sweet corn. Farming was not just his occupation, it was his passion, his dream, and the center of his life. Nothing made him happier than planting, harvesting, buying tractors, and watching the crops grow year after year. His work ethic was unmatched, and he took great pride in carrying on the First family legacy.
He was baptized in the Lutheran faith and remained a faithful believer throughout his life. Dale was an amazing provider, a loving husband and father, and a devoted grandfather. His grandchildren, Henry, Charlotte, and Claire, were the joy of his life. He loved sharing the farm with them, teaching them about the land, and watching their excitement as they explored the same places he had as a boy.
He had a great sense of humor, something he learned from his Uncle Freddy, and enjoyed sharing laughs with those around him. He liked to fish, but his true joy was always found on the farm. Known for his generosity, he was the first to offer advice, lend a tool, or help a neighbor. His respect for the land and his willingness to serve others defined who he was.
Dale will be missed by his wife of 51 years, Mary (Leich) First, whom he married on March 30, 1974 in Dowagiac; his son, Tim (Angie) First; his grandchildren, Henry, Charlotte, and Claire First; his sister, Donna (the late Carl) Filbrandt; special cousins, Dale “Chip” (Rhonda) Disterheft; and seven nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his siblings, Harold First and Beverly Wyhowski; his Uncle Freddy; special cousin, Doug First; and his parents.
Service Details
Visitation
When
November 21st, 2025 2:00pm – 4:00pm
Where
Clark Chapel
Address
405 Center St.
DOWAGIAC, MI 49047
Service
When
November 21st, 2025 4:00pm
Where
Clark Chapel
Address
405 Center St.
Dowagiac , MI 49047
Posted On: Tuesday, November 18, 2025 3:09 PM
