Dale Eugene Holler

August 29, 1945 — February 2, 2026

Paola

Dale Eugene Holler, a respected and hard working member of the community, passed away on February 2, 2026, at the University of Kansas Hospital in Kansas City, Ks. Born on August 29, 1945, in McPherson County, KS, he grew up on the Holler Farm just west of McPherson, KS.

After graduating from Windom High School in 1963, Dale made his way to Paola in 1967 driving his hot rod ‘56 Chevy to work on the Panhandle Eastern Pipeline. He met his future wife while driving around the town square when she asked if she could drive his car. Dale was only mildly annoyed when she ground the gears while shifting. Dale and Lila married on August 31, 1968, in Paola and shared 57 years and two children together. They built their home together in 1972, and still reside there today. 

Dale was a member of the Pipefitters Local 171 out of Wichita, Kansas, and worked at various jobs in the area. In addition, he owned and operated Holler Welding and Equipment, Co. for many years, repairing and selling new and used farm equipment. He and Lila also built commercial buildings that are now home to an auto repair shop. 

Dale was well known for his expert negotiating skills and his keen ability to bargain and make a great deal. He was a straight shooter who spoke his mind while also having an ornery streak. He could tell a good joke and enjoyed teasing folks now and then. 

His hobbies included restoring antique tractors and listening to country music at local jams and shows, he especially loved to hear his Grandson, Cole, perform. He also enjoyed watching his Grandaughter, Abbie, play sports. He could be heard shouting, “Way to go!” from the stands. Dale and his Grandson, Ethan, shared a love of old cars and trucks. He would always ask Ethan about the plans he had for his Dodge diesel. 

In 1986, Dale became a member of UAW Local 31 and worked for General Motors at the Fairfax assembly plant in KCK as a maintenance pipefitter. In 2006, Dale and Lila retired and started traveling all over America pulling their 5th wheel camper. Even adventuring all the way to Alaska.

Dale is survived by his wife, Lila Holler; their son, Ty Eugene (Paula) Holler; their daughter, Lori Ann (Lori C.) Holler; and his cherished grandchildren, Cole, Abbie, and Ethan Holler. He is also mourned by his siblings: Gary Holler, Linda Thomas, Raymond Holler, and Rebecca Yoder. Dale was preceded in death by his parents, Jake and Lillian (Ring) Holler.

Friends and family will gather to honor Dale's memory with a visitation taking place on February 13, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Dengel & Son Mortuary in Paola, Kansas. A funeral service will be held the following day, February 14, 2026, at 10:30 AM at the Dengel & Son Mortuary in Paola.

Dale Eugene Holler leaves behind memories woven through industry, family, and friendship. He will be remembered by all those that knew him.

Memorials may be made to Leukemia Research Foundation in care of Dengel and Son Mortuary.