Vernal Rue Hale, Sr.

Vernal Rue Hale, Sr., 92, passed away Sunday, August 5, 2018. He was born April 6, 1926 in Springerville, the son of Admiral Sheldon Hale and Martha Chloe Burk Hale.

Rue served his country in the United States Army in 1946 for 18 months as a Personnel Administrative Tech (Company Clerk). He also worked for the town of Springerville in 1952 and was the Director of Public Works. He put in the first water system, fire hydrants, street lights and built and paved most streets. He had an excellent repore with the town’s people of Springerville and was also elected as the Fire Chief, but became the city judge for 23 years. In 2014 Rue was honored to be selected as the Grand Marshall for the 4th of July parade and rodeo. Rue enjoyed working on his ranch and farm and also owned Rue Hale Pipeline Excavation and Rue Hale Sand and Rock. He enjoyed the White Mountains and loved his family very much.

Rue is survived by his children, Vance Robert Hale, Kingman; Kimberlee Ann Hale, Springerville; John Charles Hale, Glendale; sister, Verla Emma Greer, St. Johns; 13 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Geneva Carol Davis Hale, son, Vernal “Sonny” Rue Hale, Jr. and brothers, Ferrel A. Hale, Phoenix; Clifford Hale, Springerville; and Clinton Hale, Springerville.

Rue will be greatly missed by friends and family.

A Funeral Service will be held Friday, August 10, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Springerville building, with visitation one hour prior. Interment will follow the funeral services at the Springerville Cemetery.