Deepest thanks from the Hirrel and McAteer families

Laid to rest at the top of the hill where the sun shines warm, Dale Patrick Hirrel was a shining star, shining ever so brightly; he illuminated all those who knew him.
Tragically lost in a car accident at the young age of 16 years, Dale will always be remembered for his sunny disposition, infectious smile, jolly sense of humor and his passion for his family and friends.
With our most sincere and heartfelt thanks, the Hirrel and McAteer families are astonished by everyone’s outpouring of love and support on the passing of our sweet Dale.
Embedded in our memory and hearts is the compassion shown to Dale’s parents, Jackie and Danny, and his siblings, Daniel, Cieralyn and Dane, and to us, Dale’s extended family. The strength given by so many to hold us up during this most difficult time, when we couldn’t stand on our own, is formidable!
We will never forget how the residents of Greenwood Lake and the surrounding communities united as one in random acts of kindness and generosity by offering food, services, and monetary donations for Dale’s final arrangements.
We are speechless and extremely grateful for the extraordinary measures that were mobilized by so many who volunteered their efforts by organizing tribute events, collecting donations of items, raising an extraordinary amount of money online, and posting and sharing messages on social media, all because they wanted to help Dale in some way. It is just incredible!
We would like to thank Father Robert Sweeney of Holy Rosary Church for his blessings and spiritual guidance, the church choir and musicians for their uplifting songs of hope, all those who participated in Dale’s funeral mass, Anthony Ingrassia and staff at Strong Basile Funeral Home for their beautiful funeral services and Corwin’s Florist for their lovely floral arrangements surrounding Dale.
The greatest honor bestowed upon Dale was by his pallbearers—his brother Daniel Hirrel, his cousins Carlos Figueroa and Jonathon and Michael Hirrel, and his friends Brian Dalton, Jacob Hoogmoed and Brandon Turner —who proudly carried Dale for his journey to his final resting place at Warwick Cemetery. Dale wasn’t heavy, he was their brother.
We would like to thank the Village of Greenwood Lake Police, the Town of Warwick Police Department and the Town of Tuxedo Police Department for their assistance with coordinating the thousands of people who attended the services and for their loving police escort.
Special thanks to Investigator Lofrese and Officer Tinnirello of the State Police of Monroe, along with the other members of the Department, for their compassion extended to Jackie and Danny and children.
In addition, we would like to thank the American Legion Post #1443 for the hospitality they provided for the repast, Emerald Point Restaurant for the delicious catered food, the many Laker Bakers who provided decadent desserts, the many residents and local businesses who provided food, beverages, and paper products, and Mayor Jesse Dwyer and the volunteer staff of the Village of Greenwood Lake Teen Center at the Elks Lodge #2067 for the collation they provided to comfort the local young adults on the loss of their dear friend.
Thank you to the many union representatives and members who made the long trip from New York City to offer their brotherly support.
We would like to thank the Greenwood Lake School District for retiring Dale’s basketball jersey, No. 12, acknowledging Dale’s dedication and devotion to his team.
Thanks to the area high schools—Chester Academy High School, George F. Baker High School and Warwick Valley High School—not only for their loving support of the students, but also for their guidance in educating and molding our young teens for a lifetime of success.
Thanks to the Greenwood Lake Chamber of Commerce for their touching tribute to Dale, which aired on Greenwood Lake Radio on the WTBQ radio channel and thank you to the local news outlets for their compassionate news coverage.
There are so many people we’d like to thank. It’s nearly impossible. We would be absolutely heartbroken and devastated if we omitted anyone. Please know that every single one of you is forever in our hearts.
Dale was eulogized by his loving relatives— cousins Isabelle Figueroa and Brianna McPartland, Aunt Kelly Corrado, and Uncle Vincent McAteer — who all spoke of Dale’s unique character and his enormous impact on the lives of so many. Dale was one of Greenwood Lake’s finest sons.
As Dale’s godparents, Erin Costa and William Hirrel, lovingly honored Dale’s spirit by releasing a dove, the dove soared high and strong, reminding us that Dale has eternal life with God in Heaven and will forever be Greenwood Lake’s Guardian Angel, watching over all Lakers.
Dale was admired and adored by all. He touched many, many lives.
On behalf of Jackie and Danny, who are eternally grateful and who are so moved by the endless community support, we respectfully thank you all,
The Hirrel and McAteer families