Dale Schmeltzer

It is with both sorrow and a sense of celebration that we announce the passing of George Dale Schmeltzer, lovingly known as Dale, who departed this life on November 1, 2025, at the age of 94, surrounded by his beloved family at his home in Harrison, Ohio. Dale was born on February 21, 1931, in Guilford, Indiana, to George and Mary Gladys (nee Morling) Schmeltzer.
Dale's life encapsulated the spirit of resilience and devotion. Growing up on the farm during the Great Depression, he cherished memories of hunting and trapping with his father and nurturing the garden. He carried these lessons into adulthood where, despite being the shortest on the court, he became a force to be reckoned with in high school basketball, proudly recalling the time his team defeated the one that inspired the film "Hoosiers."
In 1968, Dale lost his first wife, Audrey Murtaugh, and yearned for a family of his own. On a blind date he was set up with Margaret "Peggy" Halpin in April of 1969 and they were married on October 3, 1969. It was a marriage arranged by God and they couldn't wait to start a family. They were blessed to have 4 children within 4 years: Pamela, Daelle, Paul and Lesli. Dale was a Mink Farmer and was dedicated to the profession. He was the President of the National Association of Mink Farmers and every year the family would plan their trips around the National Conventions he attended. He was also a man who liked a routine. When he worked, Peggy packed him 2 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and a banana. He never asked for anything else so for 40 years that was his lunch, which is a joke with the family.
Dale's commitment to his children was unwavering. He built a half-court in their side yard for endless games of Horse and one-on-one basketball, fostering close connections through joyful competition. Whether it was tending to his beloved garden or fishing-where he cheekily claimed the title of "bait man"-Dale infused every moment with love and laughter.
In retirement he kept his mind sharp by doing daily crosswords (and would call his brother-in-law Jack to double check answers), watching Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune, where he always answered before anyone, and relaxing to watch Bonanza, or any western movies, or back in the day Johnny Carson (daily).
He and Peggy cherished their family and when the grandchildren came along enjoyed supporting them in their loves. In their 80's they would even go to support their grandson's band and dance and sing. They were always the life of the party and their friendship to many meant the world. They loved being with friends and playing cards was always the best entertainment. Dale's big smile and even bigger heart will be dearly missed by many.
Dale is preceded in death by his loving and devoted wives: Margaret "Peggy" (nee Halpin) Schmeltzer and Audrey (nee Murtaugh) Schmeltzer, son-in-law: Dan Woolwine, parents, and siblings: Janet Ross, Loren, Ralph and Donald Schmeltzer.
Those left to carry on his legacy are his dear children: Pamela (Brett) Dohn, Daelle (Joel Garrett) Woolwine-Garrett, Paul (Desiree) Schmeltzer, & Lesli Schmeltzer; cherished grandchildren: Zoe & Lydia Cothran, Layne & Sam Dohn, Nick, Michael, & Jake Woolwine, & Iliana Dennis; as well as siblings: Ruth Grubbs, and Linda Miller, brother-in-law: Jack Murtaugh, and numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces, & great nephews.
Visitation will be held at Brater Winter Funeral Home, 201 S. Vine Street, Harrison, on Friday, November 7, 2025, from 10:30 am until 12:30 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 1 pm at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 10010 Carolina Trace Rd, Harrison. Burial will follow the Mass at St. Paul Catholic Cemetery, Guilford, Indiana, with Military Honors provided by the US Army.
Memorials may be made to St. John the Baptist Athletics Association. A funeral home representative will be present to accept memorials and cards during the visitation and before the services. If unable to attend, mail your memorial made payable to above charity to Brater Winter Funeral Home, 201 S. Vine Street, Harrison, OH 45030.