Captain Sylvester “Dale” DeLaPorte

U.S. Veteran

December 12, 1958 – June 7, 2025

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Posted by:
Michael Sheehy

Posted on:
June 12, 2025

I offer my deepest condolences to Susan, Sara, Mark, Angela, and all who cherished Dale so very deeply. There was so much to cherish. Even in a profession where so many serve so selflessly, Dale’s selflessness was beyond compare. He was a steadfast patriot who truly gave his all until the very end to protect our freedoms and way of life. And what Dale gave was extraordinarily impactful. I’ve never known another with his expansive mastery of his profession. Often the magician behind the curtain, Dale quietly – and sometimes not so quietly – alerted DoD leaders and delivered powerful solutions to strategic issues others didn’t even realize existed. Dale served others just as he served his nation…passionately and without reservation. His compassion, thoughtfulness, and generosity of spirit genuinely knew no bounds. Dale’s expertise and brilliance were unparalleled. His character was inimitable. His devotion to nation and others was transcendent and humbling. He made this world a better place, and he made each of us better. I fully expect that he is still working to achieve world peace, and I hope he is rejoicing in the company of his beloved Ranger, Scout, and Bunker. I hope too that he knows how greatly he was respected, admired, and loved. May the heartwarming memories of so many remarkable moments with Dale continue to comfort, inspire, and uplift all who knew him.

Posted by:
Robert Ketterer

Posted on:
June 12, 2025

Dale was more than a boss—he was a mentor, a guide, and a friend who shaped the lives of those fortunate enough to work alongside him. His wisdom, generosity, and unwavering belief in others helped countless people, including me, find their footing and thrive in their careers. I owe so much of the path I’m on today to Dale’s encouragement and support. One of my fondest memories of Dale perfectly captures his humor and the way he cared for his team. In the spring of 2009, my wife gave birth to our first child early in the morning. Excited, I called Dale’s Deputy Director to share the news. By the time Dale arrived at the office later that morning, the news had spread, and the whole office was buzzing with excitement. When everyone told Dale about the birth, he said, “Tell Rob congratulations, and he doesn’t need to come into work today.” When our Chief of Staff relayed the message, we all had a good laugh. It was such a classic Dale moment—practical, thoughtful, and full of good humor. Dale’s legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the careers he helped launch, and the memories he left behind. He will be deeply missed, but his impact and the laughter he brought will never be forgotten.

Posted by:
Sandy Stout

Posted on:
June 11, 2025

Condolences to the family! Memories flood my soul. From the first time we met at Bunch Bank Christmas Dinner 1974 in Hot Springs as both our mom’s were bank tellers. High School, dorms beside each other at UofA, getting a tour of a sub with missiles in Charleston, and his visits back home. Blessed to call him a friend even though we didn’t stay in touch as the years passed by. Love him and the family!

Posted by:
Sandy S

Posted on:
June 11, 2025

Condolences to the family! Memories flood my soul. From the first time we met at Bunch Bank Christmas Dinner 1974 in Hot Springs as both our mom’s were bank tellers. High School, dorms beside each other at UofA, getting a tour of a sub with missiles in Charleston, and his visits back home. Blessed to call him a friend even though we didn’t stay in touch as the years passed by. Love him and the family!

Posted by:
Rosheen Hedlund

Posted on:
June 11, 2025

Sending heartfelt condolences and prayers to Dale’s family. I worked for Dale for many years as his chief of staff and kept in contact with him well after leaving MDA. Dale had a big heart and always wanted the best for all those who touched his life. I am so very sorry I wasn’t able to see him and thank him in person for his years of mentorship, leadership, and friendship. Fair Winds and Following Seas Dale! You truly were one of a kind and deeply missed!

Posted by:
Deltra Davis

Posted on:
June 11, 2025

Sending heartfelt condolences to Dale’s family. He was an incredible boss, mentor and friend. Truly an amazing person with a generous heart! His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy of kindness and inspiration will live on!

Posted by:
Deltra Davis

Posted on:
June 11, 2025

Sending heartfelt condolences to Dale’s family. He was an incredible boss, mentor and friend. Truly an amazing person with a generous heart! His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy of kindness and inspiration will live on!

Posted by:
Kathie Kelly

Posted on:
June 10, 2025

My deepest condolences to you and your family on the loss of Dale. I worked with Dale at Missile Defense Agency in 2007 to 2010 as Dale’s secretary. He was such a nice person to work for and learned a lot from him. We stayed in touch even after I left MDA. You are all in my prayers. RIP Dale.

Posted by:
Sandra Wilson

Posted on:
June 10, 2025

Sending my sincere condolences to you and your family. I have known Dale since 2007 when I first started supporting the Missile Defense Agency. I worked directly for him from 2007 – 2014. He taught me so much and was a great man. He will be dearly missed.

Posted by:
Kristen Alvarez

Posted on:
June 10, 2025

On behalf of the Missile Defense Agency, we would like to thank Dale for his service to the Navy and our nation. I had the pleasure to know Dale over the last few years since I joined the Agency. He was a committed member of our team, and we wish our condolences to the entire family.

Posted by:
Sherryl

Posted on:
June 10, 2025

Sue, Sara, and Mark, my sincere condolences on the loss of your brother. Dale was such a great guy. I\’m not surprised at all at his accomplishments in his career. I remember him being so very smart. A humble guy with a great sense of humor – always thoughtful, with great timing (like Seinfeld). So many fond memories of our youth – that long school bus ride, church, romping through the woods in Madison County. Dale was like another big brother to me. Your whole family was like our extended family. Love and prayers to you all and Dale, may you rest in Heavenly peace old friend.

Visitation & Funeral Service Information

The family is planning a visitation and details will be forthcoming.