DALE ALLEN COUTS, JR.

Dale Allen Couts, Jr., 55, of Adrian, went home to spend eternity with his Savior on Thursday, February 07, 2008 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital, Ann Arbor, after a courageous battle with a long illness.

Dale was born on Christmas Day, December 25, 1952 in Adrian, Michigan to Dale A. and Marian (Hastings) Couts.  On October 26, 1974 he married Deborah Rieve in Tecumseh, Michigan.  

He graduated from Adrian High School and the Lenawee Vo-Tech Center Building Trades Class of 1971 and was recipient of the Gold Hammer Award.  Dale was employed by Stevenson Lumber for 36 years, becoming a partner in 1984 and was treasurer of the corporation.  He was a member of the Building Trades Advisory Board at the Lenawee Vo-Tech Center.  

He served the Lord throughout his life as a former church elder, Sunday school and junior church teacher, usher, and choir member.  He attended Bethany Assembly of God.  

Dale enjoyed his family, his work, weight lifting, all types of music, planting flowers, and taking care of his home and yard.  He usually had a smile even during the pain of his illness.

Dale is survived by his wife, Deborah, of 33 years; two daughters, Jennifer (Mark) Knutson of Manitowoc, Wisconsin and Molly (Robert) Paul of St. Petersburg, Florida; one granddaughter, Robin Knutson; two sisters, Linda (Gene) Cole of Adrian and Evelyn (David) Brandeberry of Montpelier, Ohio; his mother-in-law, Juanita Rieve, of Tipton, Michigan, brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Russell and Sally Rieve also of Tipton and several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, his father-in-law, Carl Rieve, and one daughter, Sarah.

Funeral services were held February 11, 2008, at the Wagley Funeral Home.
Memorial contributions may be made to The Salvation Army or the Adrian Symphony Orchestra.  Envelopes are available at the Wagley Funeral Home.