Dale Hensley, 83

Dale William Hensley, born June 24, 1943, to Clyde and Carolyn Hensley, passed away Aug. 17, 2026, in Hayden, Idaho. A longtime Snohomish County resident, Dale lived a life rooted in service, sunshine and a warm, easygoing spirit.

He was preceded in death by his sister and brother‑in‑law, Marilyn and Bill Linden, and his daughter, Bethany. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Lorrie; his children, John, Matt, Glee and Collin; two grandchildren and two great‑grandchildren, all of whom he loved deeply.

Dale graduated from Everett High School in 1961 and later earned both his BA and Master’s degrees in political science from Western Washington University between 1970 and 1973. He served overseas in the U.S. Army from 1966–1967, after being inducted Dec. 27, 1965, and was honorably discharged in 1968.

Public service was a constant thread in Dale’s life. While living in Everett, he served on numerous civic and political committees and spent 12 years as a Mill Creek City Council member. His career in higher education spanned more than two decades, teaching at Everett Community College, Central Washington University and the University of Washington. He retired as Executive Dean of Everett Community College.

Dale loved sunshine, boating, golfing, music, dogs and could play a mean game of poker. He had a sharp wit, a warm sense of humor and never missed a chance for a good laugh — often the kind that made everyone else laugh along with him.

Dale will be laid to rest at the Washington State Veterans Cemetery in Medical Lake. Service date and time to follow.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, donations may be made to Hospice House of North Idaho or Companions Animal Center (formerly the Kootenai Humane Society) at 10275 N. Atlas Road in Hayden, Idaho.