Dale Schalk

Dale “Fireball” Schalk of Caledonia, Missouri, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, October 3, 2025, at the age of 65.

Born in Ironton, Missouri on April 2, 1960, Dale was the beloved son of the late Emil Schalk and Bonnie (Blair) Rothlisberger. He was raised in Caledonia and proudly called it home throughout his entire life.

On May 26, 1979, Dale was united in marriage to Fern Gorman at her aunt’s house in Caledonia. Together, they shared 46 wonderful years of love, laughter, and dedication to family.

Dale had a strong work ethic and a passion for the land. He enjoyed farming, cutting hayfields, and building fences. He spent many years crushing rock for Sam Rodgers Stone Co. before dedicating over three decades to K&D Crushing as a trusted loader and crusher operator. Dale also worked for Jim Stricklin Trucking and various other local trucking companies. Whether he was hauling loads or working the land, he took pride in every job he did.

A man of quiet generosity, Dale had a soft spot for his daughters—often bringing them stuffed animals from his trips on the road. In 1978, he played a vital role in founding the Caledonia Volunteer Fire Department, living up to his nickname, “Fireball.” He also served his community by driving a school bus for Valley Caledonia School District.

Dale was a man of faith who attended Caledonia Assembly under Brother JR Ivie. In his downtime, he found joy in life’s simpler pleasures—watching NASCAR, enjoying classic westerns (especially those starring John Wayne), building model cars, and working on older vehicles.

Dale is survived by his devoted wife, Fern Schalk; his cherished daughters: Crystal & Bradley Masson, Katie Schalk, and Tiffani & Tyler Filippi; and his treasured grandchildren: Mariah & Preston Olinger, Briley Masson, and Brett Masson. He was blessed to meet his great-grandchild, Asher Olinger. He is also survived by siblings: Liz & Richard Bates, George Sanders Jr. & Kayle, Anna Ferguson, and Ricky & Brandy Sanders; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends.

He was preceded in death by his daughter Angela Schalk; his parents George Sanders Sr. and Bonnie Rothlisberger; his in-laws Sonny and Anita Gorman; and his nephew Brant Sanders.

Dale’s legacy of hard work, love for his family, and service to his community will not be forgotten. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Visitation for Dale will be held on Thursday, October 9, 2025, beginning at 11:00 am at DeClue Funeral Home. Funeral services will follow at 1:00 pm in the DeClue Memorial Chapel with Pastor Carol Brown officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Belgrade State Bank or to a funeral director during services, envelopes will be provided. 

Pallbearers will be George Sanders Jr., Ricky Sanders, Tyler Filippi, Chuckie Hampton, Preston Olinger, and Chad Haverstick. Honorary pallbearers are Richard Bates and Buddy Dawes. Dale will be laid to rest at Caledonia Methodist Cemetery with final prayers and interment following the service.

Arrangements are entrusted to the care of DeClue Funeral Home.