I had the good fortune of working with Dale at Toyota SA, during both his stints there. The 2nd time he had returned from England, where he had met Kirsty, he returned to join the new warranty store as a manger. Dale was an invaluable member to the team - known as the "canoe club" due to the fact that all the managers were paddlers. His ability to remain calm when everything around him was absolute chaos was a gift I admired. I recall one incident in the office where he just got off the "dog and bone" (some slang he picked up in England meaning "phone"). He had been on a call with a mobile phone service provider. The red tape to apply for a new contract had evidently infuriated him. The rest of the us were totally oblivious to his frustration until he categorically announced - "I am absolutely furious" in the calmest voice. Thereafter it became a standing joke in the office to announce when anyone of us was "absolutely furious" about anything. Even though for the rest of us it was never necessary to announce our emotional state as we didn't have Dale's ability to keep the secret from our faces. Dale was part of our Toyota family and treasured friend to many of us. As with any close family, no matter how much time passed between our visits - we easily settled into conversation and enthusiastically catching up on what happened since we last saw each other. I was grateful Dale let me know each time he was visiting South Africa so we could arrange a "family" reunion. He was always very generous with his hospitality when I visited New Zealand. Dale will always be treasured as a member of our Toyota family. The last time I saw Dale was for a very quick cup of coffee in Ballito during a visit for his Dad's birthday. Thankfully Kirsty had insisted he let me know he is in South Africa for a fleeting visit with his sisters for his Dad's birthday. He managed to find an opportunity to have coffee with me whilst out shopping for gifts to take back for Zach, Sayler and Cassie. The fact that it happened to be my birthday and the last time I would see him, made it all the more special. Hamba kahle my friend.

Posted by Vanessa Millard on September 4, 2026

Thinking of the time spent together as parents of TKD children. It was a busy time and along with that a fun but also stressful time. Lots of fundraising, picnics, movie nites and travelling away for tournaments. You have each other to help you get through this terrible time of losing Dale - along with the memories created. Take care of each other and thanks for being part of our lives even though it was a while ago. Big hugs to your family and especially you Kirsty, the kids Zach, Sayler and Cassie. Regards Debs

Posted by Deb and Alan Jackson and family on September 3, 2026