Dale Thomas Needle

The world lost some of its brightness on Friday, December 5, 2025, with the loss of Dale Needle, who passed away, surrounded by family, at St. Joseph’s Hospital. Born on December 29, 1943, in Giant’s Glen, Stanley, NB, he was the son of the late Robert B. Needle and Laura (Foreman) Needle. His memory, defined by the many special titles he held in the eyes of his family and friends, will forever be carried in the hearts of those who were so blessed to know him.

Dale was a service technician for 34 years at Canadian Tire and was proud to have obtained his inter-provincial licence. A self-taught handyman and carpenter, there wasn’t a project Dale couldn’t tackle, and he never shied away from figuring out a fix and lending a helping hand. The number of times he came to the rescue to assist with a car issue or a home renovation are too many to count.

As father to the four sons he raised – Michael, Brad, John and Steven – Dale was so proud of his boys and the men they became. As grandfather, Dale epitomized fun and he could always be counted on for helping one get up to something. He was the beloved Papu to Emma, Johanna and Aaron; Grampie to Alicia and Jodi; Granddaddy to Bobby and Nicole and Grampie Dale to Andrew. Dale was a loving husband to Freida (Humby) Needle, his whole world, and did everything he could to make her happy. Married for over 50 years, they journeyed through life side by side both figuratively and literally. Together they enjoyed travelling by car and bus all over North America, from New Brunswick across to Alaska and all the way down to Florida.

Dale loved the outdoors, hunting and fishing. He enjoyed washing his cars, which were always so pristine that he earned a reputation from neighbours who often wondered if he would end up washing the paint off. He enjoyed telling stories and always had a tale to share, often more than once, and he knew just how to make people laugh. He was an adherent of Saint Andrew and Saint David United Church for many years.

Dale was predeceased by his parents, his brother Elmer and his infant brother Gerald. He is survived by his wife Freida Needle; sons Michael (Cyndi) McPhee, Brad (Lisa) McPhee, John McPhee and Steven (Anne) McPhee; grandchildren Emma, Johanna (Cody), Aaron, Alicia, Jodi (Sebastien), Bobby, Nicole, Rebecca (Justin) and Andrew; 11 great-grandchildren; sister Rowena; nephew Gerald Price; niece Rhonda Price as well as sisters- and brothers-in-law Jimmy (Betty) Humby and Sharron (Donnie) McKenney.

The family is thankful to the staff of the CAM Unit at St. Joseph’s hospital for their care and compassion in Dale’s final days.

Arrangements are under the care of Fundy Funeral Home, 230 Westmorland Road,Saint John, NB (506-646-2424). In accordance with Dale’s wishes there will be no visitation. A private family service will be held at a later date. For those who wish, donations  in Dale’s memory can be made to Saint Andrew and Saint David United Church or to a charity of their choice.