Dale W. Bradley

DALE W. BRADLEY DECEMBER 20, 1945 – MARCH 21, 2026

DALE W. BRADLEY, was born in Cleveland, Ohio on December 20, 1945 to Helen (nee Manley) and Bert Bradley. Dale attended Chagrin Falls Exempted Schools and had the Prestigious Honor of being inducted into the Chagrin Falls Athletic Hall of Fame in 1993.

"Anytime Dale touched a football, he was a threat to score. The line of scrimmage didn't matter much. With sprint speed and moves that dazzled, this elusive tailback was an integral part of the Tigers' 29-game undefeated streak in 1961-1964. During his junior year, he was the all-time rushing and scoring leader. In football, he won All-Conference and Press Star honors. In track, he set a school record in the 220-yard dash with a 22.2 mark. He tied the school record in the 100-yard dash with a 9.9 clocking, Dale also lettered in basketball at CFHS, He was awarded a football scholarship to Kent State University, where he was a 2-year starter and letterman.

Dale graduated from Chagrin Falls High School in 1965, with a full ride Football Scholarship to Kent State University. Dale was a Golden Flash and earned his Bachelor of Science in Education in 1971. Dale spent 30 years as a Solon High School Teacher of Photography, Graphis Arts, Industrial Art Department Head, and Coach (track, football, and basketball). Dale was an energetic hard worker, with a "go getter" attitude and worked a second job as an Interior and Exterior Painter. Dale and Cindy took pride in their hard work designing and building their house together.

Dale did not like to be late, sit around too long, you might even hear him say "hurry up" or let's go" often. He liked to keep busy or work on a project. You could find Dale with the Choppers, at the Farm, the Chagrin FOE or local VFW, cheering on the Browns, Indians, Cavs, down at "Blossom Time", at Quinn's, Wilma's, Stroud's, Kent Homecomings, listening to tunes and dancing to live bands, laughing with friends, and riding Harleys with Cindy. He liked a good party. Oh, and drinking beer.

Dale had a loud bark and a big soft heart. Integrity, honesty, friendship, discipline, humor, punctuality, good sportsmanship, teamwork were all an integral part to his character. He loved his family and friends dearly. Dale is survived by his wonderful and beautiful wife, Cynthia (nee Mlinarik) of 54 years as well as his loving daughter, Jamie. He is preceded in death by his parents, Bert and Helen Bradley; sister, Gaynor Bradley (Lane Newstead); and brother, Dennis Bradley (Joan, nee Prinsen). Dale died at the age of 80 unexpectedly, but peacefully on March 21, 2026.

"And Now" The name of the place is "I like it like that.

Dale loved his life, his family and friends, and many sports. He enjoyed teaching and coaching. He was always willing to help anyone. Keep him in your prayers and thoughts. Thank you. Cindy and Jamie

Visitation hours Wednesday, April 1, 2026 from 4 to 7 p.m. at MURPHY FUNERAL HOME, 95 S. FRANKLIN ST., CHAGRIN FALLS, OH 44022. Graveside Service Thursday, April 2, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at The South Russell Cemetery, 5226 Chillicothe Rd., South Russell, OH 44022. Please meet at the cemetery.

A Celebration of Dale's Life will be held among his family and friends at a later date. All are welcome.