Dale Henry Coughlin, 68

Dale Henry Coughlin, 68, passed away on December 20, 2021 in Sandpoint, Idaho.

My brother, Dale, was born in Whittier, California, on June 15, 1953. I am Dale’s only sibling, Darlene Grace Abbott. Dale graduated from high school, carving his own unique path. He drove a very old pick-up truck with an overstuffed chair in the back. He only wanted clothes from Goodwill. He worked at Winchell’s Donut. Briefly attending junior college, Dale ended up in Forks, Washington, on the Olympic Peninsula, working in a shake mill. It was a perfect fit due to his love of the outdoors, hiking, and fishing. He was surrounded by friends who loved nature and the outdoors.

In November 1977, Dale had a brain aneurism while hiking. The aneurism left Dale paralyzed on his left side and legally blind. Dale was the first generation to survive traumatic brain injury.

After experiencing many physical and emotional challenges, he visited a friend in Sandpoint. In 1983, he bought a small cabin on the outskirts of town. He was able to stay there in the summer and return home to my parents, Grace and Fred Coughlin’s house in the winter. Eventually my parents would travel up to his cabin in their trailer to enjoy the summers with Dale.

When my mother passed away in 2012 Dale relocated from Southern California to Sandpoint, becoming a permanent resident. He found his true home. He lived independently for the last nine years. But he was surrounded by a loving caregiver and the support of friends at his apartment building. Dale was actively supported by the loving support of the local churches.

He will join his beloved dog Pearl and my parents in heaven.

A memorial service will be held at a later date to be announced in February.

Family and friends are invited to sign Dale’s online guest book at www.coffeltfuneral.com.

Arrangements are under the care of Coffelt Funeral Service.