Dale W. Mitchell

DALE W. MITCHELL, aged 67 years, of South Euclid, Ohio, passed away at his home on January 17, 2026, after a short but courageous battle with cancer.

Beloved husband for 39 years to Donna (nee Haywood), dear father of Christopher (Aisling), Jenifer Malone (Brian) and Shannon Esquivel (Eric), loving grandfather of Annie, Lorelei and Max, devoted son of the late Fred and Elayne (nee Sudak), cherished brother of Marcy Chizmar, Ross and Jonnie (deceased) Mitchell, fond uncle and great-uncle.

Born in University Heights, Dale spent his life as a skilled electrician and HVAC repairman, taking pride in repairing what others said couldn’t be fixed. A patient teacher and natural mentor, he freely shared his knowledge - whether it was how to install a ceiling fan, change a furnace filter, or, most importantly — how to live with compassion, kindness, and a sense of humor, even on the hardest days.

A devoted husband and proud family man, Dale is survived by his wife, Donna (née Haywood); his children Christopher (Aisling), Jenifer (Brian), and Shannon (Eric); his cherished grandchildren Annie, Lorelei, and Max. He was an adored brother and uncle and loved deeply by many nieces, nephews, all of his bonus children and by those who were lucky enough to know him. He is preceded in death by his parents, Elayne and Fred, and his brother Jonnie.

Known for his kind heart, generous spirit and gentle humor, Dale was a lifelong Dead Head who loved camping, cooking, spending time with his family, and sharing stories and s’mores around a campfire. A quiet observer, he found joy in good coffee, good food, and good conversation. Always one to crack a joke, lend an ear, or wrap you up in a big bear hug. He had a gift for making everyone feel like family — whether they’d just met him or had known him for decades. He saw the good in everyone and met life with quiet, unwavering optimism.

Dale will be remembered as a warm, funny, and deeply loving man who made every house feel like home and made every meal feel like an act of boundless love. As Jerry Garcia sang “Fare you well, fare you well, I love you more than words can tell” and “May the four winds blow you safely home”

In lieu of flowers, contributions suggested to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or the Hospice of the Western Reserve. 

Visitation for relatives and friends will be held to celebrate the life of Dale at THE DeJOHN-FLYNN-MYLOTT FUNERAL HOME OF SOUTH EUCLID, 4600 MAYFIELD RD. (just East of Green Rd.) FRIDAY 4-7 PM AND SATURDAY 1-5 PM.