Dale W. Schaefer, age 89, of New Bremen, died on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at 2:02 P.M. at the St. Rita's Medical Center in Lima after a battle with his health. He was born on May 4, 1937 near New Bremen, the son of the late Alton L. and Carmine I. (Schierholt) Schaefer. On September 8, 1962 he married Shirley A. Elsass, and they shared 48 happy years together before her sudden death on June 26, 2011.

Dale is survived by his daughters: Brenda (Craig) Siefring and Donna (Gary) Schmitmeyer, both of New Bremen; his three granddaughters: Lauren (Allen Webster) Hohler of New Bremen, Amy (Luke) Schlater of Versailles, and Kelli (Wyatt) Dicke of New Bremen; a great-granddaughter Alayna Schlater (with two more on the way); a sister-in-law Judy Gehle of Minster; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and friends.

Along with his wife and parents, Dale was preceded in death by his brothers: Roger (Lois) Schaefer, and David Schaefer.

Dale was a 1955 graduate of New Bremen High School, and went on to proudly serve his country in the United States Army from 1956 to 1959. He was a faithful member of St. Paul United Church of Christ in New Bremen, and for 36 years, he worked at Crown Equipment Corporation in New Bremen as an inspector in quality control, retiring in 1996.

He and Shirley loved taking back-road drives and traveling with friends, always appreciating the journey as much as the destination. He also treasured the countless Wednesday nights spent with friends at The Round Table at the American Legion Post 241. Sports were one of Dale's greatest passions. He coached the former New Bremen city league basketball team and played softball for the Hotel Bar for many years. Dale loved playing golf for as long as he was able - hopefully he is enjoying another round now. He especially loved cheering on the New Bremen Cardinals and OSU Buckeyes and could often be found watching sports on TV - usually golf tournaments or the Cincinnati Reds.

He was a devoted family man who cherished every opportunity to spend time, encourage, and celebrate his family. He enjoyed supporting all of their various activities. Around town, Dale was well-known for riding his scooter (showing up at sporting events, running errands, and visiting friends and family), sharing a quick joke, and brightening someone's day with his sense of humor and kind heart. His warm personality and genuine care for others left a lasting impression on every person fortunate enough to know him.

A memorial service to honor Dale's life will be held on Wednesday, May 13, 2026 at 10:30 A.M. at the St. Paul United Church of Christ in New Bremen with Rev. David Voll officiating. Inurnment will follow in the German Protestant Cemetery of New Bremen. Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, from 3:30 P.M. until 6:30 P.M. at the Gilberg-Hartwig Funeral Home in New Bremen, and again on Wednesday morning, at the church, one hour prior to the service.

Memorial contributions in memory of Dale may be made to St. Paul United Church of Christ (P.O. Box 6, New Bremen, Ohio 45869) or to the New Bremen Athletic Boosters (901 E. Monroe Street, New Bremen, Ohio 45869).

Condolences and memories may be shared with the family on the funeral home's website at www.gilberghartwigfh.com.