Dale Lawrence Sandleben, 66, passed away on November 2, 2026, at NorthCrest Nursing Center in Napoleon, Ohio, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born February 11, 1960, Dale was the son of Daniel Sandleben and Vonita Mantell.

Throughout his life, Dale built a legacy defined by service, dedication, laughter, and, above all, an unwavering willingness to be there for the people he loved.

Dale proudly served seven years in the United States Navy as a Radioman and Communications Supervisor, a time in his life he cherished deeply. Following his military service, he continued his career in communications, spending the remainder of his working years as a Communications Engineer.

In 1980, Dale married his first love, Lillian Nash. Together, they spent 39 years building a life and raising a family before her passing in 2019. In 2021, Dale found love again when he married Cari Wolkiewicz. The two began a new chapter together, embracing retirement and making memories through camping trips, long-distance sightseeing adventures, and the simple joy of enjoying life together.

Dale's greatest accomplishment, however, was never measured by his career or accolades, but by the people whose lives he touched. He was the kind of person who would drop whatever he was doing, no matter the time or circumstance, to make sure someone else had what they needed. His generosity was second nature, his loyalty was unquestionable, and his sense of humor knew absolutely no bounds.

Dale leaves behind his loving wife, Cari Sandleben; his sister, Diana (Chris) Cooper; his son, Ben Sandleben(Emily Cocke); and his beloved grandchildren, Ava and Leah Sandleben and Tatum Cocke. Dale was preceded in loss by his father Daniel Sandleben. He also leaves behind a slew of cousins, aunts, uncles, and extended family members who made his circle so special and his life so full.

If there was one philosophy Dale seemed to carry through life, it was this:

"Be decisive. Right or wrong, make a decision. The road of life is paved with flat squirrels who couldn't make a decision."

It was a fitting reminder of the way Dale approached life: make the most of it, don't spend too much time second-guessing yourself, and never miss an opportunity to make someone laugh.

He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Visitation will be held on Friday, November 6, 2026 from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance. A graveside service will be at 11:00 AM on Saturday, November 7th at Riverside Cemetery. Family and friends are requested to gather no later than 10:30 AM at the cemetery.

Memorial donations can be directed to Defiance County Sheriff's Office. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com