Dale Eugene Schreffler, 69, of Tijeras, New Mexico, passed away on Friday, March 6, 2026, after a short battle with cancer.

Dale was born on January 18, 1957, in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, to Mark and Gertie Schreffler. He grew up loving the outdoors, especially the mountains and creeks of Pennsylvania, where he developed a lifelong passion for fishing, nature and working outside.

Dale attended TVI (now CNM) in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where he studied to become an electronic technician. His career reflected both his technical skill and adventurous spirit. Early in his career, he worked climbing mountain towers and wiring equipment for two-way radio systems. He later worked for Airtime Rentals in Albuquerque before moving to Billings, Montana, where he helped build a radio communications system. During this time, he formed a close friendship with his coworker Bradley, and together they built much of the Airtel push-to-talk communications infrastructure across Montana in the early 2000s—from the telephone switch all the way to the antennas on the towers.

Bradley shared, “He took me under his wing and away we went, building the technology backbone of Airtel throughout Montana. He taught me a lot about this stuff. I will forever be thankful to him for that. He will be missed.”

Dale eventually returned to Albuquerque and retired from Val-Com Communications. During his time there, he developed close friendships with the owner, Paul, and his son Zach and their family.

Dale shared 43 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Diantha (“Di”). Their love was enduring and central to his life. The couple met in Albuquerque when Dale lived next door to Di’s sister. They married in 1982. They lived in Albuquerque for many years before moving to Montana. They returned to New Mexico in 2010 for Dale’s work and to be closer to family. They shared a lifetime of ups and downs, travel, adventures, homes, pets, house projects, puzzles, food and companionship. They especially loved gardening, the mountains and spending time with their beloved dogs. Animals were always part of their home and their lives together.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mark and Gertie Schreffler, and his infant brother, Steven Schreffler. He is survived by his loving wife, Di; his dogs, Scruff and Rosy; his brother, Jay Schreffler (Resa) of New Mexico; his sisters, Sue Cobain (Stew) of Colorado, Linda Meckley (Brett) of Pennsylvania, and Patsy Llarena (Alex) of Florida; his sisters-in-law, Janice Pobanz of New Mexico and Barbara Stufft (Allen) of New Mexico; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, neighbors and friends. Dale will be deeply missed by all who knew him. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society. A memorial service will be held at a later date.