Dale DeVan

Dale R. DeVan, 63, of Belleville, IL passed away peacefully Friday, January 17, 2025 at St. Paul’s Community Center surrounded by his family. In January 2024, Dale was diagnosed with glioblastoma (an aggressive brain cancer). He fought a courageous battle with an incurable disease.

Dale was born on May 22, 1961 to Jim and Marylin DeVan, nee Hoffmann, in Belleville, IL. He was a graduate of the 1979 Class of Belleville Township High School West and received his Associate’s Degree from Belleville Area College in 1984.

Dale spent his entire career as an auto mechanic working alongside his father and brother at DeVan Automotive Service. He started managing it in 2022 upon Jim’s passing. Dale retired in 2023 when the business was sold (after 55 years in business).

Dale was dedicated to the business, enjoyed the customers and looked forward to his countless friends that stopped by on a regular basis. Dale was passionate about cars. He enjoyed rebuilding and restoring old cars. His first hot rod was a 1969 Chevelle which he purchased in 1978. Over the years he had Corvettes, Challengers, El Caminos, Camaros…just to name a few.

Dale was a devoted son, brother, uncle, friend and mechanic. He was kind, witty, and a gentle soul. He was a friend to all that knew him, loved by many, and will be terribly missed. Dale adored his nieces and nephews and loved hearing of their career paths and adventures.

Dale is survived by:

• Brother, Alan of Belleville IL
• Sisters:
  • Linda (Tom) Fix, Carthage MO
  • Gail (Marc) Hunter, Highland IL
• Nieces:
  • Alexandra (Aramis) Johnson, Bellingham WA
  • Allison Fix, Carthage MO
  • Katie Fix, Columbia SC
• Nephews:
  • Mitchell (Katie) Paulson, Memphis TN
  • Will Hunter, Boise ID
• Many dear aunts, uncles, cousins, lifelong friends and valued customers

Dale generously donated his body to his team of doctors at Barnes/Washington University in their pursuit of glioblastoma treatment, something that currently alludes the medical profession. His remains will be cremated.

Dale spent the last 40 years having lunch on Saturdays with a large group of friends. Because of his fondness for this, he requested his Celebration of Life be a Saturday lunch.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 8, 2025 from 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. at Silver Creek Sports and Social, Belleville IL. We invite you to stop by for a bit or stay for a while.

Memorial gifts may be made to the Cancer Research Institute in Dale’s honor.

Obit Provided By:
Kurrus Funeral Home