Dale Eugene Fincke | Eastern NC Now

    Mr. Dale Eugene Fincke, age 81, of Chocowinity, North Carolina, died Monday, March 23, 2026, at his home.

    A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, April 3, 2026, at the First Methodist Church in Washington, North Carolina, and will be officiated by Reverend Ken Hall.

    Dale was born in San Antonio, Texas, on April 21, 1944, to the late Eugene J. Fincke and Faye O. Fincke. He graduated from Highlands High School in San Antonio, attended Trinity University, and was a talented basketball player who briefly played with the Philadelphia 76ers before entering military service. He was commissioned as an officer in the United States Army Signal Corps and later earned a master's degree in electrical engineering from Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas, where he met Susan G. Fitzgerald. The two were married on June 15, 1968. Susan preceded him in death on August 25, 2016.

    Dale served his country in the United States Army for 27 years, rising to the rank of Colonel. He was a Vietnam veteran and commanded at the company, battalion, and brigade levels in Europe during the Cold War. After retiring from the Army, Dale continued working in the Washington, D.C., area until 2010, when he retired from EDS and moved to Chocowinity with Susan. In retirement, he enjoyed playing golf and poker with his buddies and served the Cypress Landing community through the HOA and Golf Club/MGA. Dale attended First Methodist Church in Washington and enjoyed spending time with his Sunday morning breakfast group. He will be remembered for his wise counsel, steady leadership, and unflinching character.

    Dale is survived by his two sons, Dale E. Fincke Jr. and his wife, Jana, of Claude, Texas, and Christopher S. Fincke of Yelm, Washington; and by his two grandchildren, Chris and Carla Fincke.

    Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting the Paul Funeral Home & Crematory website.

    Paul Funeral Home & Crematory of Washington is honored to serve the Fincke family.