Dale Clairn Almlie

Dale Clairn Almlie, age 86, passed away peacefully at his home in Puyallup, Washington, on November 3, 2026. Born February 13, 1940, in Mayville, North Dakota, Dale was the son of Melvin Almlie and Gunda Uland. He earned his BA in Education from Mayville State College and began his teaching career in Minneapolis before spending several years teaching in Japan and Germany. After returning to the United States, he completed his MA in Social Work at Columbia University and later served in Tacoma Public Schools as an administrator in special education and the superintendent’s office. 

Dale was Superintendent of the Cle Elum School District from 1987 to 1993 and of the White River School District from 1993 to 1998. Following his retirement, he continued supporting school districts. He was a part-time Superintendent in Grapeview and worked with students in the social work program at Pacific Lutheran University.

He married Ann Jones Almlie in 1990, and together they built a loving blended family. Dale is survived by his wife; a brother Curt Almlie; his children Peter Almlie and Sarah Parker (Shannon); stepdaughters Cynthia Mitby (Andrew) and Deborah Douglas; seven grandchildren Drake Mitby (Laura), Teal Mitby, Melanie Woolfork (Clay), Miranda Douglas, Josie, Jack and Isabelle Parker; two greatgrandchildren Celeste and Blake Woolfork. He was preceded in death by his parents and two older brothers.

Dale had a lifelong love of antiques, gardening, Herron Island, football, baseball—especially Spring Training in Phoenix—and family trips to Ko’Olina, Hawaii. His warmth, kindness and dedication to service touched countless lives. His legacy lives on in the students he guided, the communities he served, and the family he adored.

A Celebration of Life will be held on January 23rd at Farm 12 at 1:00pm.

Please leave online condolences at www.powersfuneralhome.com. Arrangements by Powers Funeral Home.