David Hale

David M. Hale, 70, of Rutland, passed away at Rutland Regional Medical Center Saturday, May 23, 2026. He was born in St. Johnsbury, Vermont, on September 13, 1955, to his biological parents, Russel and Glenna Hale, and was raised by his paternal grandparents, Clyde and Blanche Hale.

David’s life was not without hardship. He faced challenges from an early age and often walked his own path, sometimes at a distance from family. Though his journey was unconventional and at times difficult, he met life on his own terms, shaped by resilience, a restless spirit, the connections he formed wherever he landed, and a quiet determination to keep moving forward.

A drifter at heart, David lived in many places throughout his life, some known to family and others discovered only through stories shared along the way. He spent time in Florida, New Orleans, North Carolina, and West Virginia, among other places, picking up work wherever he landed. A true jack‑of‑all‑trades, he enjoyed woodworking during his years in North Carolina, crafting coffee tables, birdhouses, and clocks. He also worked at a local auto shop, where his hands‑on skills and practical know‑how served him well.

David is survived by his sister, Brenda Santaw, and her husband, Dick, of Lancaster; his sister-n-law, Diane Hale, of Passumpsic; his uncle, Donald Winchester of St. Johnsbury; his aunts, Joanne Winchester Wheeler of Wells River and Betty Hale of North Carolina; his nieces and nephews Tim, Tricia, Shauna, Eric, Justin, and Jessica. He also leaves behind many cousins.

He was predeceased by his birth parents, Glenna and Russel Hale, his grandparents, Clyde and Blanche Hale and maternal grandparents George and Edna Winchester; his brother, Eugene Hale; and numerous aunts and uncles.

In accordance with David’s wishes, no formal services will be held. His ashes will be scattered by his trusted friend, Arthur Duckfield.The family extends their appreciation to Arthur for the friendship he shared with David and for the attentive care he offered when it was most needed.

Memorial contributions may be made to a local shelter or to an organization supporting individuals facing hardship, in recognition of the challenges David met throughout his life.