Dale was born in Ponca City, Oklahoma. He attended Oklahoma State University. Upon graduation, Dale worked for oil and gas exploration and geological consulting firms prior to attending law school. Since graduating from law school, Dale has developed a litigation practice and has tried cases in federal and state courts. Dale moved to Whitefish, Montana in 1995 and joined the firm in 1996. Dale and his wife, Judy, have raised one son and two daughters in Whitefish and are active in various community projects such as the North Valley Food Bank and Stumptown Art Studio.