Dale Stunkel Stahlhut

Dale Stahlhut was born in Wichita, Kansas on July, 8, 1928. He graduated from Allen Academy military high school in Bryan, Texas in 1946. Dale received his Bachelor of Science degree in Architectural Engineering from Kansas State University on January 26, 1951. On May 27, 1951, he was commissioned as 2nd lieutenant and began his career with the United States Air Force. He served with the Inspector General’s Office and in the Strategic Air Command Headquarters. During his service, he was stationed at numerous bases around the world and received several meritorious service awards. After 20 years of service, he retired from the USAF at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

In 1971, Dale and his family moved to Austin, Texas where he began his second career at the University of Texas J.J. Pickle Research Center. At age 59, he retired as Director of Plant Services to pursue his passion of restoring antique clocks. Dale was well known as a master craftsman in antique restoration, including the courthouse clocks in Lockhart and Georgetown, Texas.

Dale loved people, was a great conversationalist, and was respected and admired by all that knew him. He had a warm and disarming way of referring to himself as “just an old country boy,” and with his warmth, wit, and intelligence, he always made people feel comfortable and welcome. He is greatly loved and will be missed every day. We will always remember him as the smartest man we ever knew.

Dale’s passing is deeply mourned by his loving wife of 64 years, Eileen Stahlhut, and their three daughters, four grandchildren, and three son-in-laws. Daughter Karen Eckert (David Smith), grandchildren, Christopher and Catherine Eckert. Daughter Debra (Chip) Buckley. Daughter Leslie (Manny) Justiz, and granddaughters, Amanda and Haley.

Visitation will be on Sunday, January 18th 10:00am – 12:00pm at Cook Walden Funeral Home, 6100 N. Lamar Blvd, Austin. A private burial for family will be held at Austin Memorial Park Cemetery in Austin.