Search by Name

Search by Name

Gary Dial Obituary

Gary E. Dial
62, of Canal Fulton, died Sunday, Dec. 9, 2012. Gary was born Dec. 23, 1949 in Columbus to the late Erwin and Ella Dial. A graduate of Columbus Brookhaven High School, Gary received his Bachelor's Degree from Ashland University and a Masters Degree from Akron University. Gary taught at Fairless High School, Akron Hoban and Canton McKinley. For more than 30 years, Gary was a teacher, administrator and former Head Football Coach in the Northwest Local School District. He was a member of the Canal Fulton United Methodist Church.
He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Bonnie Stone Dial; children, Christopher Dial, Brandie (Nick) Fox and Broc (Kristy) Dial; grandchildren, Amber Dial, Kahli Dial, Lucas Dial and Ellie Fox.
Celebration of Life Service will be held, WEDNESDAY, Dec. 12 at 7:30 p.m. at Puffenberger Hall at Northwest High School, 8574 Erie Avenue NW, Canal Fulton with Pastor John G. McLachlan officiating. Friends may call WEDNESDAY at PUFFENBERGER HALL from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the A. C. C. or the Student Scholarshilp Fund at Northwest High School.
Swigart-Easterling, 330-854-2356
www.swigarteasterling
funeralhome.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Repository on Dec. 11, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for Gary Dial

Sponsored by Bonnie, Christopher, Brandie And Broc.

Not sure what to say?





Dorothea Perry (former student)

April 16, 2021

He was an awesome history teacher! I graduated in 1993. He was always making jokes, He always said if you have hairy knuckles you were crazy! LOL! Always made us laugh! RIP Mr. Dial You will be missed ❤

Roger Latimer

January 8, 2013

Mr. Dial was my History teacher at Canton McKinley in 1978.
He taught me many lessons that weren't necessarily lessons that were taught out of our history books.
My thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time.

Jim Yockey

December 27, 2012

Please accept my deepest sympathy in Gary's passing. He was one of the great ones. I was a college team mate and a few years younger. He was a mentor and friend. He always was positive even when times were tough. He was a true friend.

Larry Bevington

December 27, 2012

So sorry to hear of Gary's passing! We were close friends and loyal teammates at Ashland College. Even though so many years have passed and we had lost contact with oneanother, I often reminisce of the great times we shared at Ashland. It's great to read of the many lives that you touched. RIP brother!

Edward Peterman

December 26, 2012

A man who meant so much to so many. Lessons taught realized later in life. A champion when we were learning to succeed. I will never forget you!

December 14, 2012

Mr. Dial.. You will be missed. You were a favorite teacher of mine. You were a great inspiration in my life.

Elizabeth S

Brian Lukinac

December 14, 2012

Coach Dial, thanks! You were a big inspiration!

lori miraglia

December 14, 2012

what a wonderful individual, coach and principal to the Northwest Community. Forever will you leave such an amzing and inspirational impact on the Northwest (Local School) Community. I know you had an impact on my life and so many others!

Tom Coffman

December 14, 2012

What a great teacher and all around great guy. May he rest in peace.

Dave and Margaret Crawford

December 14, 2012

To Bonnie and the Dial family, Dave and I will remember the good times coaching together as well as the fun times shared at the beach. Thoughts and prayers are with you all.

John Balas

December 13, 2012

Gary Dial was a teacher who taught about wisdom that is not found solely in books He also was a man who helped us find the riches in life, but not the kind that bankers keep track of. What a fine and noble legacy he leaves. Rest well.

Bryan Neuhauser

December 13, 2012

If they were to put pictures in the dictionary for "Teacher" and "Coach" you would see the same picture of Mr. Dial. Being an educator now, I have come to appreciate the exceptional teachers and coaches I have been influenced by as a student-athlete at NW. Mr. Dial was a man of diligence with unbelievable integrity. God Bless you and your family. -The Neuhauser Family

Holly (Parker) Graham

December 13, 2012

Deepest sympathies to the Dial family. He was a wonderful person and teacher and will be greatly missed!

Jennifer Roberts-Powell

December 13, 2012

Im so sorry for your loss, Dial family!! He was one of the best, most caring teachers Ive ever met!! He will always be remembered for his " apple pie, cheverolet, and the USA!!! Heaven just got one of the best!!

Virginia Beaver

December 13, 2012

Bonnie and Family, Gary was one of the finest, and so is his family. He will be missed my so many.I My thoughts and prayers are with you. Love , Virginia

Stefanie Vaught

December 13, 2012

Mr. Dial was always so good to me. He kicked me when I needed it, and gave me a break when I deserved it. He coached my dad when they won the senate league in 76 and spoke of it every time we talked. And, I mean, every time! Such a good story teller. He was a great educator/administrator who was admired by so many. Although he may be gone, he will never be forgotten. He touched generations of students, and that is an amazing gift. My heart goes out to his family, friends, fellow educators and students. Rest in peace Mr. Dial. You were one of the good guys. Thank you.

Clint and Lori Kushner

December 12, 2012

Just a downright great guy. Had so many great times together and he made such an impact on our lives. Lori and I will never forget.

Jennifer Powell

December 12, 2012

Our thoughts are with your family. Was a joy to be around as a child lots of great memories.
Powell family

Theresa Critchlow

December 12, 2012

Truly a great teacher, he was one of the great ones you can remember and know he made a difference in your life. My thoughts and prayers to all who are saddened by his passing.

Jim and Toni Spicer

December 12, 2012

Mr Dial was a wonderful man...he was always available to help both students and parents and treated everyone with dignity and respect. He was a true professional and a great listener. Our sons are better adults because of his influence in our school district...he will be greatly missed!

Ryan Blagg

December 12, 2012

To the best Coach, Mentor, and Father-Like Coach I ever had, and a great History teacher, appreciate the time you spent with us and really caring about the people you touched. Thank you..Sincerely, Ryan Blagg-former student,player,and friend. God Bless!

Brian & Cheryl Smith

December 12, 2012

Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.

Jessica Brister

December 12, 2012

Bonnie and Family,
You are in our prayers! I am so sorry for your loss! Gary was a great man and his loss will be felt by many!
Jessica and Steve Brister (and boys)

Angi Hodgson

December 12, 2012

Mr Dial you have touched so many lives in the community! Canal Fulton has lost a special person. We are all better people because of you! You supported us through school and years after. You will be missed dearly. Thanks for being you!! Moosie Jr!

Amanda (Simon) Burton

December 12, 2012

Mr. Dial was one of my favorite teachers when I went to NW. He was the reason I came to love History. Even though I've been out of school for quite some time, I would often regale friends with stories of Mr. Dial's 20th Century History class. We've lost a great man. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and all who were fortunate enough to know him. He made all of our lives so much better.

Doug Prexta

December 12, 2012

To the Dial Family, I am so very sorry for your loss and it saddens me deeply. Coach Dial was a huge influence in my life and helped me many, many times with his guidance and patience. He will be missed dearly and will always be remembered. God Bless.

Rod Schembechler

December 12, 2012

Everything you would want your High School Football Coach to be. I couldn't imagine a better one. Apple Pie, Chevrolet, Gary Dial and Northwest Football. He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by those who had the privelage of being mentored by him. A leader, a role model, a friend and the finest of human beings. Rest in piece Mr. Dial.

Mandi Mo

December 12, 2012

We will miss you, Mr. Dial!!

Sarah (Dahlstein) McVaney

December 12, 2012

A huge thanks for the care and support you showed over the years, Mr. Dial. You will be missed greatly.

God, may you help the Dial family find peace in knowing he is walking with You today.

James Begert

December 12, 2012

Truly one of the best teachers to ever enter the classroom. Anyone who had him knows that. Also a great family friend. God Speed Mr. Dial.

Kathy Carlin

December 12, 2012

My husband and Gary had a lot of laughs during the time they were together in the Lions. Gary was a great guy and always had that smile even when he was trying to be strict.

Beth, Michael and Malley (Pardee) Snodgrass

December 12, 2012

We are so sorry for the loss of your Husband, father, grandfather and friend to so many. You are in our thoughts and prayers as you face this hard time. Love you all

Mike, Jayne, Chrissy and Nicole Brown

December 12, 2012

Our thoughts and prayers for the family of MR. Dial. You touched many lives over the years. You will be missed!

Mary Bycura

December 12, 2012

so sorry for your loss Bonnie. he was so wonderful with my kids. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Mary Bycura.

Terry Butler(Rohr)

December 12, 2012

Mr. Dial was a great person and impacted many students that attended Northwest High School. He will be missed greatly and thought of often in the future! Class of "82"

Tonya Dodson

December 12, 2012

Gonna miss you "Crab Man"!! 35 years of guidance and friendship... like a brother to me! :( Ed and I will miss you dearly!

Andy LaMar

December 12, 2012

Mr. Dial you will be missed. Thanks for all you did.

Randy Ardman

December 12, 2012

Love ya Coach, you were a great man and meant more to me than any coach or vice proncipal ever could.

Jim Gindlesberger

December 12, 2012

He made a difference in the lives of many, including mine as a former student and player and my girls!

Chris Cassidy

December 12, 2012

So sad to hear. He was always strict with me but I know it was for the better. He was a good man and he will be missed.

Dawn Pastor

December 12, 2012

My thoughts go out to your family, you were the best History teacher ever, I think of you often. Rest In Piece Mr. Dial

Melissa (Menches) Clapper

December 12, 2012

My thoughts and prayers are with the Dial family. Mr. Dial was one of my favorite teachers! He will be remembered always!

Denny Ardman

December 12, 2012

Coach Dial was one of the most if not the most inspiring figure in my life. I will never forget all he did for me and I am sorry for your loss. I am forever grateful for what he did for me and my family.

Ashley Kondracki (Frangos)

December 12, 2012

My thoughts and prayers to the family, friends, and students whose lives have been touched by Mr. Dial throughout the years. Thank you, Mr. Dial, for all your patience and guidance.

Michael Kroeger

December 12, 2012

Mr. Dial, thank you for always providing me with firm yet compassionate guidance throughout my high school years. You've shaped the lives of many young men and women and made them better people. My thoughts and prayers are with all those who loved you. May you rest in peace.

alex kittinger

December 12, 2012

you will be missed by many. bye coach. your and your family will be in my prayers.

Bethany Spencer

December 12, 2012

My thoughts and prays go out the family. Mr. Dial was a wonderful man and will be greatly missed

John Shuman

December 12, 2012

Coach Dial was not only a coach on the field but a coach in life. He touched thousands of lives, in many different ways, over his tenure in education. He was one of those great individuals who cared to make a difference in the lives of the people he contacted not only on the field but in the classroom and in life. He always wanted to see his young people be the best they can be. This is a time to remember, honor and celebrate such a great teacher of life.

Donnie Starkey

December 11, 2012

RIP Mr. Dial, I liked how you knew who I was in school even though I never played sports and never got in to trouble. You will be missed by us all.

Amy Singleton -Lyons

December 11, 2012

Mr.Dial was more than a teacher, but a mentor and he always kept a watchful eye on his students. You will always be remembered by so many people -probably more than you will ever know. Class of 1991

Stacy Spencer

December 11, 2012

Mr. Dial was a wonderful man and an awesome teacher. He was one of my favorite teachers who I will always remember fondly. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. Rest in Peace Mr. Dial!!

December 11, 2012

To the Dial Family, Gary's death is a tremendous loss. His unwaivering leadership of integerity, responsibility, respect and compassion instilled a moral compass his students will carry with them the rest of their lives. Coach you made it over the goal line into heaven. Scoreboard reads Gary Dial beloved husband, father, teacher and coach. You will be truly missed. God bless you. Patty Veney

Rachelle Rushton (Tew)

December 11, 2012

Mr. Dial, you will be greatly missed. You were a wonderful Vice Principal. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.

Tom Bauer

December 11, 2012

I pray that God will embrace and watch over Coach Dial as he did for so many of us over the years. He was a man forged from Integrity and Passion who cared enough to let us know when we strayed from what was right and showed us love by wrapping his arms around us to ensure we stayed there. I know many of us are better men, husbands and fathers as a result of all the lessons we learned from him along the way. I wish for strength, peace and courage for the family to honor and celebrate the life of a remarkable man!

Erin Stewart

December 11, 2012

Mr. Dial was a great administrator that really impacted his students and peers. He'll be missed.

Michael Jones

December 11, 2012

Dial Family,

I am sorry for your loss. I will always remember my time working with your dad as a coach and an administrator during my time as the athletic trainer at Northwest High School. He touched so many people lives and will be truly missed.

Merrilee Norman (Wilds)

December 11, 2012

Mr. Dial was an awesome teacher, he always took time help his students and make the best of every day! He will be greatly missed. Peace to the family

michelle (Rohr) Dennis

December 11, 2012

my condolences go out to the Dial family Mr.Dial was a wonderful man and will be missed dearly.

Raquel Parks

December 11, 2012

There will be an empty chair at the holiday table this year, but it will be filled with loving memories. I'm glad my son had the opportunity to work with you on the Perry High School football team, you definitely made an impact on him RIP Coach Dial.

Janel & John Vargo

December 11, 2012

Bonnie & Family,
May all the wonderful memories you made with Gary throughout your years together help you through this difficult time. Many blessings to you!

Trisha Sims (McMannes)

December 11, 2012

My condolences to Mr. Dial's family. He was a great man and made a big impact on the Northwest school district.

Scott Heinz

December 11, 2012

You were a great history teacher Mr. Dial! May the Angeles carry you to heaven and may you finally have rest.

Vanessa Fox

December 11, 2012

We met Gary thru Nick who was dating his daughter Brandie... Our first impression was that he was a caring, loving & "get to the point kind of man." As time passed & the kids married, we grew to love him as a friend. From all the responses he was truly loved and cared for & will be missed by everyone

MICHELLE PASTOR

December 11, 2012

MR DIAL I AM HERE TOO SAY GOOD BYE AND I WANTED TOO SAY THAT I AM GLAD I GOT TO KNOW YOU AND YOU WERE A VERY GOOD MAN AND I WILL FOR SURE MISS YOU BUT KNOW YOUR IN A BETTER PLACE NOW.MAY YOU NOW RIP AND BE SAFE!!

shannon britton

December 11, 2012

Mr Dial was a fantastic principal, he was always willing to talk and help you out with a problem. My condolences go out to his family during this hard time. RIP Mr Dial

Nora Helscel

December 11, 2012

My thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Dial's family during this difficult time. As a Northwest class of 1989 alumni, Mr. Dial made learning about history fun and interesting. He was one of my favorite teachers and will be greatly missed.

Tami (Mercer) Adams

December 11, 2012

RIP Mr. Dial, you were a wonderful teacher who cared about your students. My sympathy goes out to the entire Dial family in this difficult time. I will keep you all in my prayers.

Joseph Boles

December 11, 2012

Bonnie,

I was saddened to hear of your loss. Gary was a huge influence in my life at NWHS, as a teacher and football coach. He will surely be missed by all. You and your family will be in my prayers. God bless.

Krista Trent

December 11, 2012

Thoughts and prayers for the Dial family. Mr. Dial was such a motivational teacher and one the created memories in his classroom that will last a lifetime.

lindsay lewis

December 11, 2012

rip mr. dial you will be greatly missed you were the best principal and teacher and a great friend to many my best regards go out to your family in a time like this god bless

Jason Demchock

December 11, 2012

I wanted to pass along my sincerest condolences. Mr. Dial was a wonderful educator and a big part of why I decided to become an educator myself. He touched the lives of many of his students and he will be sorely missed by many

December 11, 2012

Bonnie and family, We were saddened to learn of Gary's death. He was so respected as a coach, teacher, and administrator. We hold you in our prayers. Jim and Peg Wagner

Kathy Roth

December 11, 2012

Ted and I were so sorry to hear about Gary. He was a wonderful man and he was always so kind to our son's (Justin and Eric Spradling). Gary touched so many lives and he will be deeply missed.

Kathy Roth

Mark & Joe & christian Musleve

December 11, 2012

Goodbye Coach,Thank you for teaching and coaching us and being a friend.We'll miss you.

Jan Bowen

December 11, 2012

Coach Dial
My memories of you were that of a man of honest respect to his players, students and parents. To his family, be sure to know he touched many lives and was loved by all, He was a good friend and will be missed

al tesch

December 11, 2012

Rip Mr dial ,you was a pretty good teacher ,and a good person ,I remember you well ,god bless the familly

Ronda Pett

December 11, 2012

Brandie,
Extending you and your family our most sincere condolences!

In Prayer,
Richard and Ronda Pett

Lori Kay

December 11, 2012

Mr. Dial was a great teacher, coach, mentor, and friend to many. He was one of my favorite teachers in high school. Thoughts and prayers to his family during this difficult time. R.I.P Mr. Dial.

Dawn Mercer

December 11, 2012

My condolences go out to the family and friends of Mr. Dial. He was a great teacher and coach. He will be missed my many. Hugs and prayers for everyone.

Kate Mellinger

December 11, 2012

My prayers are with the Dial family during this difficult time. Mr. Dial was an inspiration to many of us as students. He touched so many lives and will be deeply missed.

December 11, 2012

God bless the Dial family. So sorry for your loss. I have such great memories of Mr. Dial in high school. I also was blessed to get to know the family in 1995. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Love,
Leigh Ann Burrell

December 11, 2012

Mr. Dial was one of my favorite teachers- he was not only a coach on the field, but also in the classroom. He encouraged me to attend Ashland University and that has forever changed my life. Lisa Greene Rogers- Class of 1980

Kelly Wetzel

December 11, 2012

Thoughts and Prayers with the Dial Family. What a Great Guy!!

Coach Joe Demaree

December 11, 2012

My deepest sympathy to Gary's family. Gary was a coach that put the players first, one of the good guy's in the coaching profession.

Joe and Diane Weigand

December 11, 2012

Dear Bonnie and Family, Please know that our hearts and prayers go out to you.

Amanda Ohmer

December 11, 2012

Mr. Dial will be missed. Thoughts and prayers to the family in this difficult time.

Stacy Irwin

December 11, 2012

I took care of Mr. Dial many times from nursing school to my Master's Degree at Aultman. I will miss him! Thanks for the great memories in High School and for always remembering me. Love, Stacy

Alexis Jacobs (Tabor)

December 11, 2012

My thoughts and prayers go out to the Dial family during this difficult time. Mr. Dial was a man who touched so many lives throughout his career and will greatly be missed.

Christopher Pepe

December 10, 2012

RIP Coach Dial. You were one of the greatest man I have ever had the pleasure to know

Drew Taylor

December 10, 2012

In memory of a great and understanding man.

Matt Schley

December 10, 2012

Thank you coach for believing in me my freshman year and giving me the confidence to go on and play at the next level. You are a true man.

Brent Bauman

December 10, 2012

Thank you for the memories and all the advice you gave ya that we will use for the rest if our lives. You are a great inspiration to our community

Angela Woods

December 10, 2012

May you rest in peace Mr. Dial. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this time.

Sandy Schwendiman

December 10, 2012

I didn't know you well but my boys Jake and Tyler thought you were the best. RIP Mr. Dial. You will be missed.

Wendy Tucker

December 10, 2012

R.I.P. Uncle Gary

Dan Nish

December 10, 2012

Rest In Peace Coach! Thanks for being all that you were to so many. Simply remarkable.

Dustin Tichon

December 10, 2012

A father and a mentor. Gary was one of the world's brightest lights and he has touched more lives than anyone can ever imagine. He is greatly loved and sorely missed. Thank you so much for being a part of my life. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of his friends and family.

Judy Eastman

December 10, 2012

My sincere sympathy Bonnie to you and your family. Gary was such a wonderful person. I remember during high school when he would come to our home for dinner and hang out with my brother. He and Joe were such good friends. I know how much you will miss him, but his memories will remain in you heart forever.

Rachel Antal

December 10, 2012

RIP Mr. Dial, although I didn't know you very well you were a big part of Northwest and this community. You will be remembered by all of us.

Showing 1 - 100 of 106 results

Make a Donation
in Gary Dial's name

Memorial Events
for Gary Dial

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Swigart Easterling Funeral Home - Canal Fulton

624 Cherry Street East, Canal Fulton, OH 44614

How to support Gary's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Gary Dial's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more