Earnie Leroy Hale, 79, of Dittmer died April 10, 2024, in Fenton. Mr. Hale served in the U.S. Army. During his service, he was a prisoner of war in Vietnam and was honored with the Good Conduct Medal and the Vietnam Service Medal. He was a skilled rodeo bull rider and earned three silver buckles. A craftsman, he enjoyed working to restore a 1929 Model A Truck. He also enjoyed traveling, being outdoors, hunting, fishing, golfing, being around horses, and spending time with family and friends. Born June 12, 1944, in Marquand, he was the son of the late Pansie (Hendrickson) and Earnie Hale.
He is survived by his wife: Joyce Hale; six children: Dan (Mandy) Pickett, Brian (Shannon) Hale, James (Cindy) Smith, Patricia (John) Daniels, Bridget Pickett and Kati Pickett; eight grandchildren: James (Lauren) Smith, Caroline Hale, Alyssa Crossin, Carter Crossin, Patrick Pickett, Kyle Pickett, Hannah Daniels and Haley Daniels; and many other family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by five siblings: Linous Hale, Billy Hale, Jack Hale, Donald Hale, and Earline Ward.
Visitation is scheduled from 4-8 p.m. Thursday, April 18, at Chapel Hill Mortuary, 6300 Hwy. 30, in Cedar Hill. Services are scheduled for 9 a.m. Friday, April 19, at the mortuary. Graveside service with full military honors will follow in the National Cemetery at Jefferson Barracks, 2900 Sheridan Road, in St. Louis. Arrangements are under the direction of Chapel Hill Mortuary.