RUMFORD — Dale M. Sweatt, 80, of Green Woods Road, Peru, died Friday, Jan. 6, at Rumford Hospital, following a brief illness. His “girls” were with him.

Dale was born in Rumford, April 18, 1931, the youngest and one of three sons born to Verle L. Sweatt and Lilla Y. (McLennan) Sweatt. He was educated in Rumford schools and was a graduate of Stephens High School,  Class of 1949. He joined the U.S. Air Force following high school and served in Germany and France as a member of the Occupation Forces, following World War II, returning to Rumford in 1954, following his discharge.

In his younger years, Dale was employed at Oxford Paper Co., in various positions, sold business machines, became a private pilot and finally settled into mineral exploration and mining in Oxford County and the marketing of mineral specimens and gemstones, interests that continued until his death.

Dale was a member of the Masons, Elks, Eagles, American Legion, VFW and Oakdale Country Club. As a young man, he loved skiing, ski jumping and was an avid golfer, fisherman and hunter.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Carol (Donahue) Sweatt; their daughter, Valerie L. Provencher; their granddaughters, Jessica L. Naples and Kayla L. Provencher; their great-grandson, Blake Bordeau; his brother, Glynn V. Sweatt and a niece, Lilla Sweatt, both of El Cajon, Calif.; and too many good friends to even start to name.

He was predeceased by his parents; a brother, Wayne L. Sweatt, late of Tampa, Fla.; and too many good friends to name.

You are invited to share your thoughts, condolences, and fond memories with the Sweatt family by visiting their guest book at www.SGThibaultFuneralHome.com.