Dale Matney, 84, of Ceres, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, April 6, 2025, with his loving family by his side.
Born in Iowa on January 5, 1941, Dale moved to Compton, California as a young teenager. It was there that he discovered a lifelong love for fast cars—a passion that never faded. Even as a high school student, Dale was a hard worker, juggling two jobs: running a gas station and delivering newspapers. His determination and work ethic allowed him to keep his hot rods faster than even the Compton police.
In 1959, Dale was drafted into the U.S. Army and served in Vietnam as a fighter plane mechanic. He was committed to getting aircraft back in the air quickly and reliably, playing a vital role in support operations. His time in the military took him to many parts of the world, shaping his adventurous spirit. After his honorable discharge, Dale joined his mother Evelyn, father Tom, and siblings Lynda and Warren in Turlock, California.
He and his father soon began driving trucks cross-country, and Dale eventually bought his own rig. He became an independent owner-operator, hauling top-secret military material across the country from California to New York and everywhere in between. True to form, his semi-truck was souped-up faster and tougher than most on the road.
In 1974, Dale married the love of his life, Julie. Together, they built a wonderful life filled with hard work and joyful memories. They were married for 45 years until Julie’s passing in September 2019. Dale and Julie were proud co-owners and operators of JemDale Holsteins dairy until their retirement in 2020.
Throughout the years, Dale remained dedicated to his family and friends. He loved road-tripping to theme and water parks, spending weekends at the cabin in Mi-Wuk Village, bowling, golfing, and vacationing in the Caribbean and Hawaii. He also treasured family reunions in Iowa, where his roots always remained close to his heart.
Dale will be remembered for his fierce independence, unmatched work ethic, and his unwavering love for his family. He lived life in the fast lane on the road, in his heart, and in the way he loved those around him.
He is preceded in death by his beloved wife Julie, his mother Evelyn, father Tom, siblings Lynda and Warren and his stepson Steve. He is survived by his nephew Wayne and niece Lisa; his great-niece Brooklyn and great-nephew Chase; his stepson Bruce (Cindy); his grandchildren Summer, Desirea, Alyssa (Eric), and Courtney; his great grandchildren Annelise, Stephan, Colin, Destiny, Colton, Gracee, Austin, Gavin; and great great-grandchildren Elodia, Castle, and Wyatt. He leaves behind a large extended family and many friends who will miss him dearly.
The family would like to express our thanks for the wonderful help and loving care given by Kobi, Misty, Chanel, and Melinda over the past several years.
Celebration of Life
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 1:00 PM at the Mt. View Recreation Center in Crows Landing, California. The center is located at 9737 Crows
Landing Road, Crows Landing, CA 95313.
In Lieu of Flowers
In lieu of flowers, please send gifts to the Wounded Warriors Foundation, an organization close to Dale’s heart.
Condolences
Condolences may be sent to the family at:
9431 W. Main St, Turlock, CA 95380
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