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Dale W. Steele, former coach, athletic director

December 6, 2016

Dale W. Steele, 68, of Georgetown, died peacefully Friday, Dec. 2, 2016, at the Delaware Hospice Center in Milford.

Dale was born April 2, 1948, in Salisbury, Md. He was preceded in death by his parents, David and June Steele, formerly of Ocean View. He is survived by his high school sweetheart who became his wife of 48 years, Linda S. Steele; his son Jad Steele and daughter-in-law Liz, son Jesse Steele and daughter-in-law Erin, his son Jason, and a daughter, Amber Brock. He is also survived by five grandchildren; Dylan, Mykala, Sarah, Ava and Talan. Dale is also survived by his brother and sister-in-law, David and Debbie Steele.

Dale graduated from Lord Baltimore High School where he earned varsity letters in football, basketball and baseball. While in high school, he served as a Bethany Beach lifeguard. He earned his bachelor's degree from Union College in Kentucky and a master's degree from Wilmington University.

For 35 years, Dale served as a teacher, coach and athletic director in first the Cape Henlopen School District, followed by the Indian River School District. During his 35 years of service, Dale touched countless lives. Many students were guided by his positive example and dedication as both a teacher and coach. Dale was a friend to many throughout the community; he always sought to see the best in everyone he came in contact with. Dale was an avid fan and supporter of Indian River School District and its many interscholastic athletic programs.

Dale began his educational career at Rehoboth Junior High School coaching football, basketball and baseball. He was an assistant football coach at Cape Henlopen High School until receiving the head football coaching position at Indian River High School. In his first two seasons as the Indians head coach, Steele guided his team to appearances in the Division II State Finals. In 1988 he led the Indians to their first Division II Delaware State Championship. One of his many accolades was being nominated Coach of the Year for the Henlopen Conference in 1988. Dale completed his educational career as athletic director of the Indian River School District.

Dale also served as a Little League coach in the Lower Sussex Little League for several seasons, as well as in the recreational program for Bethany Beach. He was also a member of Mariner’s Bethel United Methodist Church in Ocean View, and Life Church in Georgetown. Not only was Dale an excellent coach, he was the consummate family man. Mr. Steele always put his family first; their interest were above his own. He loved and supported his children and grandchildren in their various activities. Nothing made Dale happier than to see his children and grandchildren succeed. His selflessness, leadership, guidance, companionship, and dedication to family and community will surely be missed. Forever there will be a void in our hearts that can only be filled by the countless memories of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and soon to be great-grandfather.

A viewing will be held Saturday, Dec. 10, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., at the Ocean View Chapel of Melson Funeral Services, 38040 Muddy Neck Road, Ocean View, where the funeral service will begin at 11:30 a.m. Interment will follow at Mariner's Bethel Cemetery in Ocean View.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Life Church, 24545 Shortly Road, Georgetown, DE 19947, or Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963.
Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

 

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