Dale Gerard Schmuke

Dale Gerard Schmuke, 69, of Union, Missouri, peacefully passed away at home surrounded by family on March 4, 2026. He was born on March 6, 1956, and was a lifelong resident and devoted supporter of the Union community.

Dale was a graduate of Immaculate Conception School and a 1974 graduate of Union High School. He developed a strong work ethic early in life, working for Purschke Oil Company, Fink's Save-A-Lot, and Schulte's Bakery. In 1974, he began what would become a distinguished career with United Bank of Union. Through dedication, integrity, and hard work, Dale advanced through the organization and retired in June 2021 as Executive Vice President. That same month, he was appointed to the United Bank of Union Board of Directors, and in April 2023 he was named Chairman of the Board, a role in which he continued to serve with great pride.

Dale's commitment to public service and civic leadership was evident throughout his life. He served the City of Union as an elected Alderman from 1994 through 2018, dedicating 24 years to helping guide the growth and development of the community he loved. He served as Treasurer of Union Homes since 1983 and was a long-time member of the Union R-XI Foundation, where he was named treasurer in 2009. Dale was also a member and treasurer of the County Seat Senior Center, diligently supporting programs and services for area seniors.

Deeply involved in youth programs, Dale was a leader of Boy Scout Troop 442 and Cub Scout Pack 446 and was always a faithful supporter of Friends of Scouting. His quiet leadership and steady encouragement left a lasting impact on countless young people.

Dale's dedication to his community was recognized by the Union Area Chamber of Commerce, which honored him as the 1991 Outstanding Young Man of the Year, presented him with the 2005 Distinguished Service Award, and, in 2023, the Long Haul Award for his decades of commitment to Union.

He was a lifelong member of Immaculate Conception Parish in Union and a member of the Knights of Columbus Mathaushek Council 1576, a Fourth Degree Knight of the Msgr. George J. Hildner Assembly. He served as the parish chair of the Annual Catholic Appeal for many years. His faith guided his life, and he generously shared his time and talents in service to his parish and community.

Dale will be remembered for his steadfast leadership, his honesty and reliability, and his tireless dedication to Union. He took great pride in his family, his work, and his hometown, and he leaves behind a legacy of service, integrity, and community spirit.

Dale is survived by his loving wife and best friend of 47 years, Connie (née Kossmann); three children, Stephanie (Brent) Nissen of Union, Missouri, Erin (Travis) Griffin of Union, Missouri, and Timothy (Katie) Schmuke of Kansas City, Missouri; and ten cherished grandchildren, Ian, Chloe, and Rachel Nissen; Alex, Emma, Claire, Kendall, and Morgan Griffin; and Beckett and Keaton Schmuke.

He is also survived by his sister, Debbie (Wally) Walkenhorst of Washington, Missouri; brothers- and sisters-in-law, Dennis (Nancy) Kossmann of Washington, Missouri, Mike (Brenda) Kossmann of Arkansas, Mark (Linda) Kossmann of Washington, Missouri, Jim (Donna) Kossmann of Union, Missouri, Nancy (John) Caldwell of Washington, Missouri, and Debbie Kossmann of Union, Missouri; along with many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Emil and Irene (nee Weiskopf) Schmuke; a brother in infancy; his parents-in-law, Earl and Helen (nee Fink) Kossmann and his brother-in-law, William Kossmann.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 AM on Monday, March 9, 2026 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Union, MO with Rev. Peter Blake officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Visitation for 69-year-old Dale Schmuke will be held from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Sunday, March 8, 2026 at Oltmann Funeral Home in Union, MO. A parish rosary will be led by the Knights of Columbus at 12:30 PM on Sunday at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to Immaculate Conception School in Union, MO.

The Schmuke family is served by Oltmann Funeral Home in Union, MO.