Dale

Hills

Dale Leland Hills, 59, passed away in the early morning hours of Friday, November 6, 2026, with his guardian, Rose Hekkema, and dear friend, Kent Bates, lovingly by his side.

Born on July 7, 1967, in Fremont, Michigan, to Samuel and Carol Hills, Dale lived a life filled with love, laughter, and simple joys. He graduated from Newaygo County RESA Education & Activity Center and participated in the Special Olympics- Area 21 (now Area 5) for several years. Following the passing of his mother in 2014, Dale came to live with the Hekkema family, where he was welcomed with open arms and cared for by his guardian, Rose Hekkema.

Dale had a special way of making everyone around him feel loved. He loved life, good food, music, dancing, and, most of all, people. It was rare to see Dale without a smile on his face. He even had his own special one-finger wave that never failed to bring a smile to those lucky enough to receive it. He had a heart of gold, not one mean bone in his body, and a gift for making connections with those he met. Whether calling someone "pretty lady," "sweetheart," "honey," or “big guy,” Dale had his own endearing way of showing affection. He had specific special nicknames also reserved for certain people in his life. His warm personality, contagious smile, and genuine love for others made him unforgettable to all who knew him.

In 2024, Dale found another extended family and a wonderful circle of friends among the staff and fellow participants of Life Circles. He quickly became part of a community where he was welcomed, valued, and loved which was evident by the numerous visitors he had during his final days. The friendships and connections he made there added another special chapter to his life.

Dale reminded those around him that happiness can be found in life's simplest pleasures and that a little kindness and a smile can mean so much. He always reassured others that “it will be all right.”

He was loved beyond words by his biological family, his guardianship family, his Life Circles family, and numerous family friends. He leaves behind countless memories that will continue to bring smiles to the faces of those who knew him. His presence made life a little brighter, and he will be deeply missed.

Dale was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel and Carol Hills, and co-guardian, Bob Hekkema. He is survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Warren and Pam Hills; his nephew, Thomas and Caroline Hills and their children, Finn and Beatrix; his nephew, Daniel Hills; his guardian, Rose Hekkema; his extended family, Dan and Kim Hekkema, Tyler and Jessica Hekkema, Taya Hekkema and TJ Waters; his special friend, Kent Bates; the Younts family and the Hekkema family; and many others who were fortunate enough to know and love him.

Visitation will be held Friday, November 13, from 2:00–3:00 P.M. at Crandell Funeral Home in Fremont, MI, with a memorial service immediately following at 3:00 P.M. Dale will be laid to rest beside his parents at Sherman Township Cemetery.

Though Dale's time with us has come to an end, the love he gave so freely, the smiles he shared, and the joy he brought into our lives will remain in our hearts forever. The world was a little brighter because Dale was in it.