Dale “Finn” Eugene Hietala, 88, of Duluth, passed away peacefully on November 16, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Dale was born in Duluth on May 30, 1937, to Norman and Ester Hietala. He was a proud 1956 graduate of Denfeld High School, where he distinguished himself as an all-city defense end in football and also played hockey and baseball. Following graduation, Dale honorably served his country for three years in the U.S. Army.
He married the love of his life, Linda, and for 57 years, they built their life and family together in Duluth. Dale worked at the Duluth Steel Plant until 1971, followed by a career at Diamond Tool until its closure in 1994. He retired from St. Mary’s Hospital in 2002.
A lifelong athlete, Dale’s dedication to sports was legendary. He was a familiar and respected figure in the Duluth area, having umpired softball for 42 years. His deepest passion, however, was bowling, a sport he pursued tirelessly for 69 years across Duluth and Superior leagues. More than any score, Dale cherished instilling a love for baseball and bowling in his son, Darren, and spent countless memorable years supporting him from the stands.
Dale is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Linda; his son, Darren (Lisa) Hietala; his daughter, Kaylee (Mitch) Aleshire; granddaughters, Makinley Hietala and Langley Hayman; and great-granddaughter, Fiona Aleshire.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Kari (Norman) Shuster; his parents, Norman and Ester Hietala; and his siblings, David (Darlene) Hietala, Ryan (Faye) Hietala, Rodney (Betty) Hietala, and Shirley (Chuck) Meyer. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, December 6th, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the American Legion, 5814 Grand Avenue, Duluth, MN 55807.
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