About
Dale Weston Obituary
As a child in and out of family's, neighbors', and friends' homes, his Richford, NY community nurtured him. He was truly "free range", guided by the seasoned residents and immersed in the unsupervised and unstructured play of his peers.
The two-room Richford Graded School created Dale's fondest educational memories. Advancing to his 7th grade year at Newark Valley Central School was a difficult adjustment, but participating in sports gave him an arena in which he could excel. A member of the Class of 1960, he was an ardent competitor and participated in football, basketball, baseball, track, and wrestling. Although his guidance counselor laughed when he said that he wanted to go to college, he walked into the Admissions Office and enrolled in Ithaca College where he received his BS in Physical Education. His subsequent graduate studies were at SUNY Cortland.
As an elementary PE teacher at Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk Central School, and a PE, Health and Driver Education teacher at Spencer-Van Etten, his influence spread across distances and generations. As a coach of both girls' and boys' sports, he was beloved, always bringing out the best in his players.
After losing a colleague in a tragic accident, Dale stepped in to help the family with their Christmas tree farm. Soon his own Frosty Morning Tree Farm was established which provided summer employment for many a crew member. Having a vision of providing a Christmas experience for families, the Christmas Tradition was subsequently built. And, after former students and community members approached Dale wanting to sell property, he established WDR Enterprises, LLC, purchased housing, and began a rental business.
His childhood poverty was one of the driving forces behind many of his projects. He wanted to ensure that his family would be provided for. But that poverty also led him to help others in need and motivated him to serve on the Spencer Town Board, and ultimately the Tioga County Legislature where he also served as Chairperson. In those roles he believed that he could have a broader impact.
However, for the Spencer community, Dale's legacy will certainly be the Nichols Park Pond Project. At the pond site there is free access to all to enjoy nature, share family time, interact with one's neighbors, and experience the richness of living in a rural community.
Confronted with an unwinnable contest with aggressive prostate cancer, the excellent care at John's Hopkins provided him with many extra years. Having a welcoming home away from home at his sister-in-law's in Maryland made that care possible. The unwavering support of his beloved son and dearest friends bolstered him during his last weeks, and he was privileged to spend his final days under the compassionate and loving care of the nurses and aides at Hospicare of Tompkins County. Dale's local physician Dr. Lucia Jander was nothing short of a treasure throughout his challenges.
Dale's wife of 60 years, Joan (Geerken) and son Brent survive him. He is also survived by his sister Mary Stull, his brother-in-law Gunter Weiss, sisters-in-law Joyce Weston and Alda Mandell, extended family Holly Green, Madi Tarantelli, Sicily Green, and nieces and nephews. He was pre-deceased by his parents, Theodore Weston and Doris Head Weston, as well as his siblings: Elwood Mathewson, Nancy Weiss, Donald Weston, and Bonnie Lusk.
As a fitting memorial to Dale, please greet others with a smile like his, show kindness to those less fortunate as he did, and share the rich stories of the life he shared with us.
Support of the following organizations would also be fitting if you so choose:
Hospicare & Palliative Care Services, 172 East King Road, Ithaca, NY 14850
Nichols Park Pond Project, P.O. Box 431, Spencer, NY 14883 or https://www.nicholsparkpond.com
The Richford Historical Society, 40 Glen Road, Berkshire, NY 13736
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Patrick Uotila
July 12, 2024
Mr. Weston always had a lot of unique and thoughtful advice, well beyond the subjects he was teaching. He would loan me soda money and say "your smiling when you take it, so I expect you to be smiling when you give it back." Growing up in Spencer, he was one of my favorite teachers (along with Mrs. Weston of course!) and community members. A life well-lived...my sincere condolences.
Dale V Lent
June 27, 2024
SVE High, laugh !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! life well lived,
Nicole and Ben Olivencia
May 13, 2024
Truly a man with a great heart of service - Thank you for a life well lived.
Lourdes Olivencia (Niece)
May 10, 2024
I remember the times when we had pizza parties at our house and you gave me advice on track and cross country - you did make me laugh!!!
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Mary Weston Stull
May 10, 2024
Dale was the best son and brother anyone could have asked for. We certainly loved him with all our hearts. What a blessing to read how he touched so many family and friends. I know Dale displayed compassion and love to all, may his example live on. RIP. I got the last say, instead of the last hit.
Tim Nolan
May 10, 2024
So sad to hear this. I worked with Dale at Tioga County for four years and remember our discussions about table saw safety and tinnitus in particular.
Steve Jackson
May 6, 2024
I just saw a marquee in Candor saying "Thank You Dale Weston, you will be missed" and I was shocked. I hadn't seen Dudley in a number of years. I met him in our Monday Night Golf league at Catatonk. I NEVER saw him without a smile and I found him to be funny, kind and loyal. Part of an addition of my (ex-wifes) house came from the wood he had from an old greenhouse he tore down. Sold it to me for almost nothing...because we didn't have much being newly married. Every time I ran into him he was smiling...and that made me smile. I will carry that image with me every time I think of him. Thanks for the laughs Dud...heaven got a good one for sure! -Steve Jackson, Owego, NY
Edward & Diane Miller
April 25, 2024
Joan & Brent, Our deepest Sympathy,
Ed & Diane Miller
Grand Junction, CO
William H Standinger III
April 16, 2024
I must begin by saying to Joan, Brent and all those who are dealing with the loss of Dale I wish you peace. That being said I will share that I first met this old Richford boy When he was a Spencer board member and he came to meet me and other members of the NY State Police BCI regarding an issue at the Spencer PD. Dale was a pleasure to work with and we were able to rectify the issue to his satisfaction. Little did I know that I would retire from the NYSP a few years later and run for the Tioga County Legislature where I once again had the pleasure of working with him. Being new to Governmental duties I relied on his mentorship and now have a good grasp of what it requires.
I can say that we became close friends over the past 12 years because we were like minded on many issues. Dale was quick with his humor and wit without being condescending which is a unique talent. I can say without reservation that I am a better man for having known him and I will miss him dearly.
On another note, I witnessed many acts of kindness Dale inflicted on those in his orbit and he was generous to a fault with his time and treasure, never failing to render help to those in need. He was an example of a selfless, non-judgemental community member that led by example, he certainly will be missed by all who knew him. Godspeed Dale may you rest in peace!!!!
Tammi Sharpe
April 16, 2024
I have reflected frequently about Mr. Weston since graduating from SVE. His classes had a lifetime impact on me and to this day....some 40ish years later....I am not dismissive of the dangers of using drugs. He was a powerful teacher. My warmest thoughts and condolences for the family. Tammi Sharpe
George Hoffmier
April 16, 2024
Dale was a good friend. We grew up in Richford. Dale you will be missed my friend. George and Nancy
Martha Sauerbrey
April 15, 2024
I was fortunate to serve as a County Legislator with Dale for 19 years. He was Chairman of the Legislature and under his leadership he guided us through many challenging situations one of which was the flood of 2011. That was a difficult time but he brought us through safe and sound. Dale was thoughtful and always made time for everyone. We all miss his corny jokes and his love of community! We miss you my friend.
Skip and Heather
April 14, 2024
Dale was a great friend. He will be missed. Sending our thoughts and prayers to Joan and the rest of the family.
John Sibert
April 14, 2024
I was fortunate to meet Dale about 12 years ago as a result of my relationship with his sister-in-law. On the occasions we visited Spencer I had the opportunity to play golf with Dale, drive around the community, enjoy a meal together, etc. Literally everyone we met knew Dale and took the time to stop and talk with this wonderful man. As I got to know him better I developed a deep respect for his life story. Born into great poverty he lived the American Dream through hard work, determination and by treating everyone he met with kindness and compassion. Together with his wife Joan he positively impacted his community in countless ways. He will be remembered fondly and missed greatly.
Penny Brown
April 13, 2024
Health teacher. I met his older brother when I moved into our neighborhood in Dryden.
Charles Yaple
April 13, 2024
Charles Yaple
April 13, 2024
Charles Yaple
April 13, 2024
Blessed, indeed, are those who have a close life-long buddy. Sail on among the stars Richford boy till we meet again.
Michael S Ryan
April 12, 2024
Always nice to haved talk to Dale such a good person, he will be missed in Spencer
Kathy Crooks
April 12, 2024
Mr. Weston was my drivers ed teacher and he was very cool. Us 70's teens all loved him and enjoyed him as a teacher. It is a great loss and I hope and pray that Mrs. Weston and family and friends know how much he was loved at S-VE.
Christine Lavore
April 12, 2024
Dale, I first met you at RVs diner, I looked forward to our talks and your wisdom back then where we would converse over your morning coffee, I moved on to real estate and you Legislator, we did our fair share of deals, from houses to the odds and ends in the chicken coop I can not thank you enough for all the mentoring over the years, the help and guidance from both you and Joan, always willing to lend a hand when it was needed, all you have done for so many others. the way you could tell it was a silver quarter. .from all the years of collecting them from the car wash, the Christmas trees, Santa sleigh, there are so many grateful memories, you touched so many lives this world is a better place because of you, you will truly be missed
Denise Brotzman
April 12, 2024
A life well lived. He left such on impact for having been here. Denise Anderson/Brotzman.
Hazel Saikkonen
April 12, 2024
Can't imagine Spencer without Dale, will always be missed. Hazel Saikkonen.
James H Brown
April 12, 2024
I had Dale for drivers ed back in 1970, he made learning fun for sure. I have know Dale since then, I played Santa for him in his Christmas store he had, had coffee with him many of times. He also helped me out when I got hurt and needed a place to live. Thank you Dale you will surly be missed.
Rose Usack
April 12, 2024
Mr.Weston was loving and supportive force in my teenage life..during Track practice he was so supportive and so kind! After reading this lovely memorial I am honored to have known him ! My sincerest condolences to his entire Family.
Fay and Millie C.
April 12, 2024
Dale will NEVER be forgotten!
Allison Stiles
April 11, 2024
I will miss Dale stopping by to chat when I'd be out on my porch he'd see us pull in with a trailer load of treasures and couldn't resist it. Of course he always wanted to deal with my husband because he said I drive a hard bargain. Always in good spirits even when talking about his illness. We shared a love of stuff and would often joke about who had more. His commitment to our community was unwavering and his legacy will live on.
Calvin Mathews
April 11, 2024
I was saddened to hear of Mr. Weston's passing. I had the distinct pleasure of having him
as a teacher and an employer. He was a great person. He would always go out of his way to say hi in and out of school. He will be missed. My sincerest condolences to Joan and Brent.
Jason Mathews
April 11, 2024
Mr Weston was an amazing person. He will be greatly missed by many. Him and Mrs Weston were both teachers of mine at S-VE and were both wonderful people. After graduation we would see Mr and Mrs Weston at bluegrass shows and festivals and would always say hi and chat for a minute. They always came out were ever Mathews Family Tradition played and we really appreciated their support of local music. Our sincere condolences to his family and friends. RIP friend
Theresa M. Usack
April 11, 2024
I have very fond memories of Mr. Weston our teacher and track coach. His smile would light up a room. His encouragement as I was running the 800 under the lights at OM will always be a memory. Sending blessings to his family.
Kim Root
April 11, 2024
Dale walked into my diner (Bostwicks Kitchen) sat at one of my high top tables and had a coffee in one of my odd ball cups. He wanted the cup , it was a funny one. From that day forward it was his.
He always was encouraging telling me to keep going, he believed in me and my abilities to have that little diner.
Dale was a great man and he will be missed.
Kim..
Everett Boutillet
April 11, 2024
Dale remains the only Republican I´ve ever voted for! I remember classmates in high school Health class deliberately prodding him off topic which was easy to do. He was full of good stories and loved to tell them. One of Dale´s business properties bordered my former home on Academy St. He offered to bring his brush cat over to knock down a dead tree and clear out a patch of unruly undergrowth. He spent a couple of hours and appeared to enjoy himself. I sometimes wondered if Joan knew what he was up to. If there was any doubt he was probably HELPING SOMEONE. Louis and I were lucky to help him and Joan on the pond project. Dale was generous, kind, congenial, funny - an outstanding example of community dedication and service. My heart goes out to you and your family Joan. Please take care.
Chris King
April 11, 2024
I will miss seeing Dale around town. I appreciate his many business endeavors and all the work he did to improve the community. Truly a nice man. Condolences to his family and close friends.
Cornelia (Valentine) Maffia
April 11, 2024
It´s with sadness I learned of the loss of Mr. Weston. He was an excellent Drivers Ed Teacher and made it possible for many of us to learn how to drive...which I also felt was a brave endeavor. I always think of him with kindness as he showed kindness to me and others. Also, my Dad enjoyed the fact they attend the same school in Newark Valley, NY. He will be greatly missed.
Denise Presher
April 11, 2024
Our prayers and thoughts go out to Dales family. He had a big heart, always had a smile and always took the the time to stop and speak . He also a great teacher. He truly was an inspiration. Ron and Denise Presher
Wanetta Satomaa
April 11, 2024
The loss of Dale and his big smile will be missed by all of us that enjoyed knowing him! To Joan and Brent I send wishes for happy memories! Wanetta
Aime Cary McGeehan
April 11, 2024
My first reaction in hearing this news was, "this world just lost one of the truly good ones". His positive impact on the area and the people is immense. I will forever remember the example he set through his always pleasant nature and smiling face. Some of my fondest memories are of going as a family to pick out our perfect tree. He certainly left a legacy through a life well lived. Sending my sincerest condolences to his family.
Carin Cary Rouleau
April 11, 2024
Mr. Weston was a kind and good man with a great sense of humor. My thoughts and prayers are with Mrs. Weston and Brent.
One of my favorite memories was Drivers Ed with Bernadette and AL. We had too much fun! And of course picking out the perfect Christmas trees each year as we were growing up.
He definitely made a positive impact in our world.
Gary Hammond
April 11, 2024
Sincere condolences to Joan and Brent. Having worked with Dale for many years with Tioga County, I have to say that he was a great man and that I will miss him. You could always count on him to have a witty anecdote and a view to solve a problem that I hadn't considered.
Leslie Greeson
April 11, 2024
April 11, 2024
Leslie Greeson
Mark B and Luce G
April 11, 2024
Our most sincere condolences to Joan and Brent. Dale was a great neighbor and so generous to us as we became established on West Hill. We remember his humor and sound advice, both so freely given. A real loss to the community.
Steve and Liz King
April 11, 2024
Our deepest condolences to the entire family. Steve and Liz King
Bob Rose
April 11, 2024
my sincere condolences to Joan and the family. I grew up with Dudes and Joan. Dale was one of a few that I considered very close friends. I will always have fond memories of the sports and other times we spent together.
Terry Dhuy
April 11, 2024
I will always remember Dale and his wifes kindness, no matter where they were, what they were doing. if they could help , they
would and did. Dale will certainly be missed . totally agree with always a smile on his face. Terry Dhuy
Doug and Gail Barton
April 11, 2024
Our deepest sympathy to Joan and Brent. Gail remembers when she first met Dale and shared that she had grown up in Richford. H
e knew her parents and was delighted to share Richford memories. While working at Tioga County, we got to see and interact with Dale frequently. He always had a big smile and a positive word. Golf with Dale was always a good outing. We were fortunate to know him. Doug and Gail Barton
Wyatt Halm
April 11, 2024
Mr. Weston was my health teacher I believe in 7th grade. I honestly thought the man would live forever. He didn´t just teach health and fitness, he lived it. Of the many lessons learned from him, perhaps the one that resonates most is that our existence may be impermanent but our impact on the world around us certainly doesn´t have to be. Mr. Weston´s contribution will certainly remain a constant in my life as I imagine it will in the lives of the countless students he enlightened through his many decades of selfless service.
Barbara Smith (Forsythe)
April 11, 2024
Mr Weston was the best Health teacher SVE had he was always so nice and when you needed someone to just talk to he was always the one who never judged anyone no matter who they were.
Fly High Mr Weston may you continue your journey up above guiding Everyone as you guided so many while you were down here one great man for sure.
Schreen Austin
April 11, 2024
Dale was a great teacher. we had so much fun in driver's ed.
Jane
April 11, 2024
Great teacher. I will always remember his smile and humor. Jane 1984
Leslee Lindhorst
April 11, 2024
When I started teaching at SVE, Dale and Joanie were always helpful and supportive, like another set of parents! What a loss to this community.
Andrew G. Fagan
April 11, 2024
My sincere condolences to Joan and Dale´s entire family. I enjoyed being part of agriculture related meetings with Dale when I was the Executive Director of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Tioga County, where he would bring his smile and good nature, as well as his commitment for our area farmers.
Victoria Reichman Gillispie
April 11, 2024
He was a great drivers ed teacher. I still remember things he taught us!!
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