John L. Dale, age 84 of Defiance, passed away surrounded by his loved ones on Thursday evening, July 2, 2026 at CHP Defiance Area Inpatient Hospice Center.

He was born in Holgate, Ohio on May 6, 1942 to the late Ronald and Helen (Dachenhaus) Dale, and was a 1960 graduate of Holgate High School. On June 25, 1961 he married his high school sweetheart, Mary (Moore) Dale who preceded him in death on June 19, 2021.

John was a faithful member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Defiance, where he was active in the Altar Guild and was the host for funeral services. He worked at Johns Manville for over 40 years until his retirement in 2000. He took great pride in his work, and enjoyed being outdoors and doing yard work. He treasured time spent with his family, especially with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. John will be sadly missed by his family and many good friends.

John is survived by his loving children, Pam (Doug) Engel and Greg (Yvonne) Dale, all of Defiance, his grandchildren, Nicholas (Carrie) Engel, Brittni (Robert) George, Kristin Keirsey, Kelsey (Travis) Capps, and Ryan Dale, and 14 great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his brother, Tom Dale.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Wednesday, July 8, 2026 at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance. A funeral service will be at 11:00 am on Thursday, July 9th at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Defiance, with Rev. Dave Brobston officiating. Additional visitation will be from 10-11 am at the church prior to services. John will be laid to rest in Riverside Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to St. Paul Lutheran Church, or CHP Defiance Area Hospice Center. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com.