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Dale Michaels Obituary
Beloved Husband, Father, Counselor, Educator, and Mentor
Dale S. Michaels, M.S., LPC, of Wayne, PA, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at the age of 60. He was born in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania to the late Philip L. and F. Joyce Michaels. A devoted husband to Mary-Alice Michaels (née Prewitt) of nearly 30 years and loving father to Aidan Michaels, Dale's life was defined by his deep commitment to helping others.
His early years of life were spent in Mercersburg Pennsylvania and in 1976, moved with his parents to the Mahoning Valley. After earning his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Messiah College and his Master of Science in Counseling from Villanova University, Dale dedicated over three decades to guiding children, adolescents, and adults through challenges related to anxiety, mood disorders, substance dependence,and developmental trauma.
In addition to his role as a licensed professional counselor in private practice with Bala Child and Family Associates, Dale was a professor of Psychology at Philadelphia University-now Thomas Jefferson University-where he taught upper-level clinical courses. His work led to the creation of the university's Master's program in Community and Trauma Counseling, designed to equip professionals to support individuals and communities affected by extreme stress and catastrophic events. His students often spoke of his kindness, patience, and dedication to their success.
Dale had a lifelong love of baseball. A former player himself, he carried that passion into adulthood-regularly playing with The Sunday Morning Baseball group. He was an avid bass guitar player, but enjoyed playing a multitude of instruments.
A celebration of Dale's life will be held in the coming weeks. Dale's kindness, wisdom, and dedication to others will be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues, students, and all whose lives he touched. Dale is also survived by a sister, Judy Bricker of Cañon City, Colorado and two brothers. Barry Michaels of Hampton, New Jersey and David Michaels of Chambersburg Pennsylvanian as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
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Anna Martin
April 30, 2025
I am so so sorry to hear this. Professor Michaels was one of my most favorite instructors at Philadelphia University, 20 years ago. I will remember him forever. I hope the family finds healing. He was such a wonderful, caring person.
E.S.
April 25, 2025
What is there to say but how incredible of a person Dale was. I had the privilege of being his student and having him as my academic advisor for almost my entire undergraduate phase, and I consider every day and every memory I have with him to be a gift. Such an incredible person, so kind and genuine through and through, and a compelling and intelligent professor with so much to teach. I hope to be even half of the counselor and person he was. His impact echoes throughout the PhilaU/Jefferson community. His memory will be there forever.
Leah Davis
April 3, 2025
Professor Michaels was my favorite instructor while completing my undergraduate degree at Philadelphia University nearly 20 years ago. He taught me many of the foundational skills that I use each and everyday in my career in ABA. I am forever grateful for his impact on my life.
M.K.
March 19, 2025
Dale was one of my favorite professors and really helped me transition out of a major and into Psychology and eventually into graduate school.
I am forever grateful for the time he spared me to talk about being a therapist and I have fond memories of him sharing an Asian snack his neighbor had shared with him. They're small and fleeting memories, yet they make me thinking fondly of him. I'm deeply saddened and my heart goes out to his family. May the transitions that come with this great loss be as smooth as possible for you all. I wish you all well.
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Alaina Boswell
March 6, 2025
At Jefferson, I was a Psych minor and had only one class with Dale. In that short time, he made an impact on me through his excellent teaching style and through sharing parts of his very interesting, impactful career. Personality Theory, specifically, was probably one of the most well designed courses I have taken in my academic career. Dale kept the class extremely interesting and I have always raved about what a unique experience it was to be able to take the 16 PF free of charge in his class and the special care he took to explain our results. In law school, I am taking a Law and Psychiatry class this semester and before finding out the news, I had talked about Dale's class almost every week because his teaching style, content of his class, and his personality in the way he conveyed information has always stayed with me. He was truly the best, so thoughtful and so funny (and it was nice to have another Orioles fan in Philly). He touched so many lives and will be missed by all of them.
Bill Belt
March 5, 2025
I met Dale when we joined the Sunday Morning Baseball group around the same time, 25 or so years ago. Roughly twenty players would meet at Haverford College, or on what used to be Lower Merion High School's field, to relive old memories and make new ones. I don't know which of us was more delighted to discover this group, but from that point on, Sunday mornings were spoken for eight months a year, longer when the weather cooperated.
Dale was our MVP, always the best player on the field. Those making teams would always have to stack the opposition to try to make the teams fair, since he could beat you almost single-handedly. Just because he was the most talented among us, though, didn't mean he played with any less passion. He'd dive for balls in the outfield (even when it led to yet more concussions), and he'd swing so hard he'd corkscrew himself into the ground (once tearing his rib cage and needing an ambulance). Injuries eventually forced Dale to give up the habit several years ago, but he would stop by now and then, and I can confirm that the legend of his prodigious homers and of his love for the game live on.
Sidebar baseball trivia: Dale had such a strong arm that in college he was a pitcher. This was the era of the designated hitter, so despite Dale's entreaties, his coach only allowed him one career at-bat. Needless to say, it was a long home run.
Dale lived the same way he played baseball: all-out. The last time I talked to him he mentioned that he'd been out of commission for a while due to back surgery. When I asked him what had happened, he said, "I tried to lift a tree." That was Dale. He seemed to have this idea -- in the best, most humble sense possible -- that he was Superman, unconstrained by the limitations of mere mortals. I'm still amazed how often he pulled it off.
Although we met on the baseball field, Dale and I really got to know each other as colleagues. One day early in my tenure the head of our therapy group approached me about having Dale join and wanted to know what I thought. I'm not sure I even knew at that point that Dale was a therapist, but I was an enthusiastic supporter, having no idea what a tremendous asset, professionally and colleague-wise, he would turn out to be.
What followed were many happy years of Dale coming to my office to say hello, grab a handful of Hershey's kisses and try to talk me into teaching an assessment class at (then) PhilaU, or me walking by his office at the end of the day to catch up on each other's family (Mary Alice and Aidan were probably our SMB group's most loyal fans), or to chat about any of his favorite baseball teams (Orioles, A's and Pirates, for those scoring at home). If he wasn't in session, his door was always open, and the day always felt more complete if I got to see him on the way out of the office. Funny how I remember the little things, like the way he'd drag out "ye-ah," or how he'd start a sentence, "Well, you know . . . ." The great laugh. The twinkle in his pale-colored eyes.
The last time I saw Dale was November. I was retiring and had taken him out for burgers at our favorite dive bar in order to guilt him into taking on one of my clients, despite his always over-jammed workload. Whenever I had someone I really wanted to be well taken care of, I always turned to Dale, and he never failed me. Ever. Until now. God, I miss him.
Colette VanHise
March 4, 2025
Dale was more than a professor to most of his students. I consider myself so lucky to have experienced what Dale was able to give to all of us. To have such a supportive and encouraging advisor/professor/friend is something I will remember forever as he had a big role in where I am today and how I got here, but also where I'll end up in the future. I often find myself hoping I would run into him on campus simply because he was just that kind of person who you were so excited to see and catch up with. Though he had so many students, he didn't make it feel as such. He was very personable with every individual he came across which made you love him even more. I want to send light and love to all of his family and friends during this hard time. I am just so happy and grateful I was able to have someone like Dale throughout my years at Jefferson and I want to thank him for everything he has ever done for me.
Jason Holden
February 27, 2025
I had the pleasure of meeting Dale. He did more than help me; he expanded my professional career and showed me the type of counselor I aspire to be; he cared immensely for the people he connected with. With a heavy heart, his death came as a shock. However, I see his character lasting a lifetime and impacting the people he met. He will be deeply missed and remembered for the truly amazing person he was.
Oliver Unland
February 26, 2025
Dale had the kindest and most gentle soul, both as a person and a professor. He cared fiercely for his students and wanted nothing more than to foster their growth as counselors and help them succeed in the program. His genuine passion and commitment even went beyond an educational context, as anyone could see and feel how much he truly cared about the well-being and health of others outside of the classroom. Dale gave encouragement and honest advice to everyone, and you could trust him to never steer you wrong. He was a pillar of inspiration, not only as a leader and professional, but as an honest person who dedicated his life to selflessly helping and supporting other people. Dale, you will be missed greatly by all of your students, past and present. The enormous impact you´ve had on all us cannot be understated, and we consider ourselves very lucky to have had a person like you come into our lives.
Laurie Jean migliaccio
February 23, 2025
I´m so deeply saddened to hear about this news. He helped me in so many ways back in 1994. He was the one person who gave me a hope and a new way to live . A true learning gift! Thank you Dale for your kindness towards a very sensitive soul .Thank you for teaching me how to learn and acing my classes !! Rest with the Angels and may you always have love and light surrounding you .
Paul Fallon
February 21, 2025
Dale, was last of his kind. Just a truly remarkable person. My prayers go out to his family .
Katelyn Andel
February 20, 2025
Dale was so incredibly patient and encouraged all of his students to be the best version of themselves. He was warm, kind-hearted, and saw people for exactly who they were. He was my mentor and will always be my biggest inspiration in the counseling field. I learned so much from him in class and from witnessing the way he interacted with people. A legendary counselor and a true visionary. My heart goes out to the Michaels family. Words cannot describe how amazing of a person he was.
Lauryn
February 20, 2025
Dale was an amazing professor, and was my favorite at Jefferson. He was incredibly kind, and you could tell he was passionate about teaching and what he was teaching. I send love and healing to his family and friends, he was one of a kind.
Talia Foresta
February 20, 2025
Dale was truly the best. If you knew him, you loved him. He has helped me through some seriously difficult parts of life. He was so so kind to everyone. When you had any type of conversation with him, it resulted in your day being brighter. He gave me and others hope to keep going. Dale was a healer with and without trying. I´m so grateful I got to experience being his student and he will always be my favorite professor. My deepest sympathy and prayers go to his wife and son whom he never failed to mention. My heart hurts so deeply for you.
Michelle DiLullo
February 20, 2025
Dale was kind, compassionate, influential, encouraging, and wise. It didn´t matter if you needed to go to his office for academic help or if you just wanted to chat about your day, his door was always open. He was one of my biggest supporters during undergrad. I´m so grateful I had the opportunity to sit in his classroom and learn from him.
While in the CTC program at Jefferson, I had made the decision to transfer to Rutgers University to instead pursue a graduate degree in Communication & Media Studies. Dale immediately wrote me a letter of recommendation and repeatedly told me that he would always have my back. He wanted everyone to succeed no matter your path. Right before I heard about his passing, I was typing up an email to update him that I had officially graduated with my MA. I would not be where I am today if it weren´t for his wisdom, guidance, and positivity.
He was such a bright light and will be missed dearly.
julia
February 20, 2025
Dale was such a bright light on campus, and he was the bast advisor and professor I could have asked for. He believed in me when I didn't believe in myself, and he encouraged me to join the CTC program when I felt directionless. I owe my degree and my career to him, as I'm sure many other can relate to as well. Thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Caroline Deas
February 20, 2025
Thank you Dale for being the best mentor there ever was. Words are not enough to describe his impact on campus. I don´t believe I would have gotten my degree if he wasn´t my advisor and I´m sure many others share this sentiment. Memory eternal, you will be so missed.
Kelly Burrichter
February 20, 2025
Praying for you during this time. I am deeply saddened by the news. So many memories.
Ellie Egher
February 20, 2025
Dale was a wonderful professor who was as real as they come. I never took a liking to psychology, but loved his class just because of his personality. I was a student athlete at Jefferson, and he even came to support me at a couple games when he found out. May he rest in peace and know the immense impact that he has made on so many lives.
Wayne Urffer
February 19, 2025
For as long as I knew Dale, nearly 40 years, at all times and in all circumstances, he was kind, thoughtful and supportive. He was the quintessential "nice guy," but more than that, he was a good man. Maryalice and Aidan, I am so sorry for your loss.
Dominique Manning
February 19, 2025
I am deeply saddened by the news of Dale's sudden passing. He was the light of my difficult undergraduate experience at PhilaU. Dale spent countless hours of his personal time on the phone with me, encouraging me, and motivating me to see myself in the way he saw me. I believe many students share a similar relationship with him - he was selfless, kind, compassionate, and dedicated. Without Dale, I would not hold my M.S. in CTC - not only did he create this incredibly important area of expertise, he advocated to the board that I was capable of being in the program. He believed in me. I genuinely would not be where I am today without the greatness that is and was, Dale Michaels. May he rest in peace, and to his family, friends, people he held close - I am so sorry for your loss.
David J Prewitt
February 18, 2025
The all too few times I hung out with Dale remain special to me. From family reunions, visits and a fun meal at Hall´s on the river, Dale was great company. His humility, compassion for others and kindness were qualities I cherish and always wish to emulate.
He was an optimist. Every time I had asked him about his Phillies, he was sure that they´d be they were on the way to the world series.
jeff schriver
February 18, 2025
Dear Mary- Alice & Aidan, my cousin Dale represented the best of us. Your loss is beyond words, know you are not alone. LOVE Jeffrey Schriver
Heidi
February 17, 2025
Mary Alice, I´m so sorry for the loss of your husband and Aidan, your father. I hope that the memories you have with him will help you now and in the future. Think of you, Heidi V. Tirjan
Mary Logan Wulfman
February 17, 2025
Mary Alice, I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. I hope you have many wonderful memories to help you through this difficult time.
Susan Mease
February 17, 2025
So very sorry to hear this, Mary Alice.
Susan Mease
Karen Schlaffer-Tutino
February 17, 2025
MaryAlice, I am so very sorry for your loss.
Jean Easterly
February 16, 2025
We enjoyed time with Dale and family when they visited us here in California. Dale has touched many lives in a positive manner and will be missed. Love, Uncle Bill and Jean
Mike Perkel
February 16, 2025
Only the good die young.
RIP, Dale.
Giulia Fervienza
February 16, 2025
Dale personally reached out to me about an internship opportunity. He said he believed I was the best candidate for it and I was in shock hearing of this. Although I have good grades in school, I always doubted my academic abilities, so having Dale personally reach out to me, even though I had only had one class with him prior, was really special. He saw my value when I didn´t. After that we grew close and he taught me that my characteristics and traits that I once thought were negative ones, were actually positive ones. He made me feel valuable. I will forever credit my success to Dale. He made it all happen for me.
Brittany Cordero
February 16, 2025
Such an unfortunate loss. Dale was an amazing person, mentor, teacher, friend. He really was a true gem and the world was a much better place with him in it. I am so happy to have known him and so so sad that he is gone. His impact will never ever be forgotten.
Wishing his family peace and comfort in this extremely difficult time. He is already so missed.
Brittany (Erdman) Cordero
Linda Harrell
February 15, 2025
Mary Alice and Aiden,
Cliff and I are so sorry to hear of Dale's passing. He was a wonderful person and will be missed terribly. Love you guys! RIP, Dale I love you.
Kate Funk
February 15, 2025
18 years ago, I transferred to Philadelphia University and met a professor who was truly one of the most influential people in my life.
I remember sitting in that classroom in the back corner of Hayward Hall, hoping that my new college would have a teacher in the psych department who kept my attention and inspired me. I remember this gentle, yet humorous, tall man who came through the door, and it felt like the whole class just kind of fell under his spell. His class instantly became my favorite. I remember him explaining class concepts in stories that kept me engaged, and this somewhat soft-spoken, super-smart professor, started revealing his slightly snarky, dry sense of humor, and it hooked me.
I had switched schools because of my eating disorder and addiction recovery, trying to be close to family and then trying to get a change of scenery. Starting my career at Philadelphia University, I was very different than the woman who left, because of Dale's sense of trust and acceptance of me. He saw me not as a screw-up but instead as a prospective colleague and an equal. My trust in him and his sense of assuredness in me, changed my life. I thought if this wise, kind, and talented person could see something in me, I couldn't be that broken.
I got sober at Philadelphia University. I started my career as a clinician. I carved out the remnants of Anorexia I still grappled with. I did great in his classes and decided to follow in his footsteps as a therapist. A career that would be the most rewarding, heartfelt, and natural work I had ever done. His grounding, supportive, kind, reassuring energy gave me solace unlike anything I had ever experienced in my life, and it helped me build a foundation to truly heal. This foundation he helped me build has in turn helped hundreds of my own clients! Think about how many people Dale has helped through, helping all of his students! He was miraculous. The Philly U/ TJU Gandalf, to put it simply, he was extraordinary.
My grief feels profound, but I hadn't seen him in years. I cannot imagine how devastated those closest to him are. My process of grief feels complicated due to the fact that I, for some reason, thought I would have more time to learn from him. I always saw myself having more time to pick his brain, to collaborate, to feel the grounded energy he brought with him. We texted a week and a half before he died. He told me he had been sick and was having a heart procedure and that we would catch up when he was feeling up to it. I am so thankful we had that last text, but goodness do I feel robbed of another visit, I'm sure we all do. I can sense the pain we all must feel. What a monumental hole has been left by his absence?!
The day after I found out about his passing, I had to go to another funeral, and the priest was saying how the person who had passed had "served their ministry in this world" and was ready to go home to be with God. I couldn't help but think of Dale, he truly ministered kindness, encouragement, wisdom, humor, and generosity to all of us. He was a cherished gift in my life, and I know a gift to all.
Right before I decided to type this, I was painting to help me process all these feelings. I started crying, and turned to take a moment to breathe and look out the window, and saw it had just started snowing. It felt like a comforting hand on my shoulder from my teacher, my mentor, and my remarkable friend.
I am so sorry for all he loved and so thankful that I met him.
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