Dale Graff, 72, of Grinnell, died on Sunday, November 3, 2024, at UnityPoint Grinnell Regional Medical Center.

A funeral service will be held at 10:30 am, Friday, November 8, 2024, at the Smith Funeral Home in Grinnell. Interment will be at Sheridan Cemetery north of Grinnell. A luncheon will follow at the Sheridan United Methodist Church.

The family will receive friends at the visitation held from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Thursday, November 7th at the Smith Funeral Home in Grinnell.

Memorials may be designated to the Poweshiek County Fair Association and mailed in care of the Smith Funeral Home and Crematory, PO Box 368, Grinnell, IA 50112. Memories and condolences may be shared with Dale's family online at www.smithfh.com.

Dale Allan Graff was born on June 13, 1952 in Toledo, Iowa, to Lester and Vivian Graff. He was raised on the family farm in Sheridan Township northeast of Grinnell, where he developed a lifelong love of farming and stewardship of the land.

Dale graduated from Grinnell High School in 1970 and married the love of his life, Janelle Pierce, on November 19, 1971. Together, they were blessed with three children: Michelle, Curt, and Kyle. Dale and Janelle made their home in Grinnell, eventually moving to a nearby farm, where he continued to work the land he loved.

For 48 years, Dale worked for General Telephone (GTE), beginning as an accountant and later becoming an outside plant engineer. His dedication and commitment were evident in every role he took on, including serving as the long-time treasurer for Sheridan United Methodist Church. Dale was a hard worker who valued community, family, and faith, and he generously gave his time and skills to help others.

In addition to his career and community service, Dale cherished his time attending all of his grandchildren's events, farming, tractor rides, and tinkering with various projects. Known for his ornery wit, love of a good laugh, and endless nicknames, Dale was a man who treasured his family, showing his love in his own unique, teasing way.

Dale is survived by his wife of 52 years, Janelle Graff of Grinnell; daughter, Michelle (Greg) Heinselman of Grinnell and their children, Caleb (Makenna) Heinselman and Chelsie (Noah) Hovell; son, Curt (Melissa) Graff of Grinnell and their children, Ashlynn, Brayden, and Briley Graff; son, Kyle (Jess) Graff of Grinnell and their children, Blaine, Tristan, and Jackson Graff and Shantelle (Matthew) Waltz, Troy Brown, and Lane Brown; and his sister, Sandra Meek of Tama, IA. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Kenneth Graff; and grandson, Dylan Graff.