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October 12, 2009

Chickasha Army private found dead at Fort Riley

Ellis Goodwin

A Chickasha man stationed at Fort Riley, Kan., was found dead at the base earlier this week.

Pfc. Dale Tyler, 28, was found unresponsive just after 5 a.m. Wednesday in his home in the Colyer Manor neighborhood. He was pronounced dead at 5:33 a.m.

Friday would have been his last day in the Army.

The cause of death in unknown, but a full autopsy and investigation have been ordered by the Army.

Tyler did not have any known illnesses other than sleep apnea. His sister, Traci Casler, said he went to sleep feeling okay, but never woke up.

His family in Chickasha was notified Thursday. He lived in Chickasha from the time he was born until leaving for the army in 2007.

His mother, Darlene Tyler, said her son was a good person who was loved by his family and friends. He was married and had three step-sons in Kansas, and also loved country music and going fishing.

Tyler was stationed with Headquarters Company, Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division.

He had talked about becoming a U.S. National Parks ranger after leaving the Army.

"He decided to join because it just was something he wanted to do," Darlene said of her son.

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