Rest easy Dale, you were one of a kind. A true warrior in all sense of the word. You exemplified what it meant to be a committed person to a cause and a great person to be around. I cherish the time we spent together as teammates on the Ice Blacks and as competitors in the NZIHL. And as many have already stated, I'd much rather have you as a teammate than as a member of the opposition. A true battler and a tenacious competitor. The good times will always stand out and you will be forever remembered. Rest easy brother. Wanny

Dale, I am so grateful that I got one last chat in person with you when I went to pick Floyd up to take for a walk. You were at your mum's having job interviews over zoom, and going to England was one of your plans that you were tossing up at the time. We had a long chat about life and everything else. Floyd eventually fall asleep as he got sick of waiting! I loved growing up with you! The Harrop's and the Grooby's spent a lot of great times together, memories that I will treasure for my life-time. Trip to Australia, trips to Hanmer - that game of monopoly haha , the Christmas Eve family celebrations, hours at Alpine Ice, the many family BBQ's, family weddings, watching you play ice hockey in the stands or on-line when you played out of Christchurch, the many birthday parties, many hours playing at the playground across from your house, and the many sleepover's watching Mighty Ducks. You lived an amazing 33 years, and are loved by many. Say hi to Simon and give Floyd a pat from me. You will never be forgotten xxx

You have finally left me lost for words. I loved you more than I realised and I'll miss you more than you will ever know. We have spent the last few days celebrating who you were and it's finally putting a smile on my face. You really were the best mate anyone could have, always there for everyone, answered every phone call, met up on every passing opportunity, came to visit and stayed in touch. Easy to chat too, easy to laugh with, easy to laugh at. Fuck we had some giggles my friend, I'll cherish every memory I have from Perth to the Bay of Islands. We are lucky to have your Cuba itinerary and plan on re doing it in your memory. Wherever you are, I have no doubt you will be last up, save me a spot at the table as it's bound to be one hell of a session. Taken far too soon and leaving a heavy wake behind you but never forgotten. Stay small big feller. Love, one of your many friends

I played with you for one season but I will forever remember you as one of the happiest persons I’ve ever met in my life. It’s impossible for me to think about you without a big smile on your face. I’m sorry I couldn’t be there today, but it was nice to see all the people there giving you a farewell. It’s not usual that someone has friends like you all over the world. Best regards from Sweden buddy.

Every meaningful game I ever played in NZ and for NZ, Dale was there. He's embedded in the fabric of some of the greatest memories I have. He was raised right and represents the best NZ has to offer. I look forward to the day I'm back in the country hearing stories about Dale again. Those stories will make people happy just as Dale did in life.

Wishing I could be there with you today. Hockey is such a big part of all of our lives, and for me - there is no hockey without you, Dale. From day 1, you were there, and through all the club, Canterbury, and New Zealand tournaments you were there. Grateful to have shared all of my highs and lows of my hockey life with you. Great team mate, better friend. Rest easy brother..

Dear Dale, I was so sad to receive the news of your passing. Brought together by a lifelong friendship of our mothers (lest we forget the matching denim jackets), many a childhood memory of mine includes you. I’ll never forget your infectious smile, good natured manner, and your amazing head of hair. While it’s been some time since our paths have crossed, it’s obvious that none of this has changed. Rest easy, Tim

Waiting at Chicago Airport, we received the devastating news. In a single moment, so much changed. I had the privilege of being associated with hockey teams Dale played on, both in Canterbury and in Auckland, and was able to witness the impact Dale had on all those around him. He welcomed our son to the group, as a mentor and very close friend, and helped build his love for the game both on and off the ice. A massively generous person, we’ll always remember his infectious smile, warm heart, and often inappropriate banter. Memories of Dale skating to the bench after a tough shift, mouthguard half hanging out, and yelling his usual, succinct expletive, will stay with me forever. Sometimes this journey we’re on makes no sense, and this is one of them. Always in our hearts, rest easy #6 / #17.

Family, Friends, Teammates, I was shocked and saddened to hear the news this week, had a bit of a cry and then immediately started laughing about all the good times with Dale in my short time spent dusting off Dunedin in a three peat by the Red Devils. I think collectively anyone whoever had the privilege to interact with Dale would have the same sentiment. The thought of him instantly brings a smile to your face. A glue guy who loved having the boys together, a teammate who gave an effort and lead the group, and an all around character person on & off the ice. Dale, You’ll be missed my friend. Your Canadian Buddy, Vandy