Dale Stein

Dale Stein, 89, of Hamilton, Montana, passed away on October 20, 2025 at Daly Hospital. Dale was born on July 21, 1936, in Enterprise, Oregon, to a very devoted loving family deeply rooted in farming and ranching. He was the son of the late John Stein Sr. and Alta Stein. Born a twin with Don Stein, they had 9 brothers and sisters and later joined by another brother. Eventually having 11 siblings.

As a young man, he was extremely active in 4-H earning multiple ribbons and awards. He worked alongside his family farming and ranching in Wallowa County, Oregon, where he developed a lifelong appreciation for hard work, community, and the outdoors.

After graduating from Enterprise High School, Dale proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1956 to 1962, achieving the rank of Specialist SFC E6 in the U.S. Army Reserve. Following his military service, Dale embarked on a lifetime of entrepreneurship and community involvement. He opened and operated several successful businesses, including Stein’s Mobile Homes, RV’s and Service and Stein’s Storage. He later built and managed Stein RV Park in Hamilton, now known as Black Rabbit RV and Storage.

Dale was a proud and devoted Freemason for 64 years, serving as Master and earning the honored title of Worshipful Brother. His dedication extended to the Shriners organization, where he was a member of the Legion of Honor and the Shriner’s Million Dollar Club, having personally helped raise over one million dollars for Shriners Children’s Hospital. Dale was well known for his enthusiasm in local parades and community events, often seen driving his Shriner mini-VW and spreading joy wherever he went. He also enjoyed his time as a member of various organizations including the Bitterroot Trap Club, Hamilton Elks and Hamilton Golf Club.

A true outdoorsman, Dale loved hunting, fishing, skiing, and exploring the mountains and rivers of Montana. He enjoyed his time at the Black Powder Muzzleloading club in the Bitterroot Valley. Enjoying the outdoors as the pioneers once lived. He also had a deep love for travel that took him across the globe to places such as Brazil, Mexico, Jamaica, Greenland, Australia, Canada, and South America.

Above all, Dale was a man of strong Christian faith, integrity, and devotion to his family. He will be remembered for his hard work, entrepreneurial spirit, generosity, and the steadfast love he showed to those around him.

Dale was preceded in death by his beloved spouses, Darlene Arnhart and Jean Biederman-Stein, parents John Sr. and Alta, eight siblings and son-in-law Louie Zirbel; survived by his children Wanda Chapieski (Dave), Eva Zirbel, Brenda Chaffin (Ron), and Ben Stein (Kateland); 11 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild; brothers John Jr., Warner and his twin Don. His legacy lives on through them and the many lives he touched.

A graveside service will be held on October 24, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Hamilton Cemetery in Hamilton, Montana, with a reception to follow at Daly-Leach Chapel.

Memorial contributions in Dale’s honor may be made to Shriners Children’s Hospital, 911 W. 5th Ave., Spokane, WA 99204.