Major Dale R. LeClerc

Major (Ret.) Dale LeClerc, 88, beloved husband, father, grandfather, friend, and long-time Monterey resident, passed away at home in the morning hours of Thursday, Feb. 29, 2024. Dale was known for his straightforwardness, his giving and kind spirit and generous nature. He was a deeply spiritual man who was always helping others. He served as a mentor to many people during his lifetime. As an officer in the U.S. Army, he was a highly decorated Vietnam veteran who commanded both attack and heavy lift helicopter combat units during his two tours in Vietnam. His men, mostly young warrant officers, loved him. He always put his men first! He led from the front — leading many of the missions himself. He was a “hell for leather” soldier and was featured in the book “About Face” authored by Col. David Hackworth. His various awards included the Distinguished Flying Cross with Oak Leaf Cluster, Bronze Star, the Air Medal with a “V” for valor and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Silver Star. Dale celebrated 50 years as a broker within the Monterey real estate community as well as an active member of the chamber of commerce. Dale started Seven Cities by the Sea in 1972 with long-time resident and fellow veteran/broker Claude Giles. For many years, they were one of the highest volume real estate brokerages in the peninsula. After selling Seven Cities, he started up Western Pacific Real Estate which he owned for more than 20 years until he retired. Dale simply loved the challenge of real estate and real estate development business. He also continued his passion for flying within his business — owning at one time two small planes and a helicopter. Dale met his lovely wife, the former Betsy Weiss, in 1976. They met on a plane en route to San Diego — which seems most appropriate, based on his love of flying. After many years of being together, they finally married in 1992, then settled in Monterey. Both Dale and Betsy shared a love for many animals and lots of travel. He was an active member of Cypress Community Church for more than 50 years. He participated weekly with his dear inner group of brothers in faith who sustained him and their community throughout the years. Dale is survived by his wife, Betsy; son, Michael; his grandchildren, Marlena and Brendan; his sister, Rosalie Ringstrom; many nieces and nephews; his godson, Chrisian Forbes, and beloved dog, Toby. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” — John 3:16 Dale LeClerc believed, and so he will have eternal life in heaven and be in our memories for life. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Veterans Victory Alliance, veteransvictoryalliance.org and Birchbark Foundation (Saving Pets/Supporting Families) Birchbarkfoundation.org