Dale Duane Smith

Dale Duane Smith of Akron, age 92, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 6, 2025, at Timberline Lodge with his family by his side. He was born December 2, 1932, in Caro, the son of the late Raymond R. and Maude R. (Crosby) Smith. Dale attended Ellington and Thane Country Schools, then Caro High School through the 9th grade, before going to farm with his older brother. He later graduated and took college classes. From 1952 to 1954, Dale proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. While stationed at Fort Knox, he instructed in munitions and worked as a military policeman.

Faith, community, and family were the cornerstones of Dale’s life. He married Janice Marie Severance on November 9, 1957, a union that would span nearly seven decades. Together, they raised five children and embarked on various business endeavors. Dale and Janice owned a 160-acre farm in Cass City where they grew crops and raised cattle. Dale also worked for many other farmers. After they sold the farm, he and Jan bought the Circle S gas station in Akron in 1975. Later, Dale ran a small trucking business.

Dale was a devoted member of Colwood United Brethren Church. He played a key role in the construction of the church’s new sanctuary, dedicating countless hours of effort. He was a proud member of the American Legion and the Akron Rotary. Dale’s love of fast-pitch softball spanned decades. Known as an outstanding pitcher, he played while serving in the army and was involved in several local leagues well into his 60s. Dale also found joy in bowling, golfing, hunting pheasants and deer, ice fishing, and trips up north. He was gifted in mental math, had a sharp mind and a remarkable memory, able to recall every card trick in a Saturday night game of Rook. He had a keen ear for music, especially enjoying gospel quartets. In his late 80s, Dale became a prolific painter of beautiful landscapes and abstract art.

Though not a man of many words, when Dale spoke, people listened. His words carried the weight of experience and the wisdom of a well-lived life. His testimony was, “The Lord provided through all our lives.” His generosity was steady and unwavering. He lived with grit and grace, pushing himself far beyond what anyone expected. Even at 92, Dale enjoyed mowing the lawn and tending to his yard. While some may have affectionately referred to him as “That Stubborn Man,” it was that very spirit, unshakable, principled, and strong, that made him so deeply loved and profoundly respected.

Dale leaves to carry on his legacy, children, Laura (Jeff) Nowlen, Dwayne (Terri) Smith, Wendy (David) James, and twins, Amy (Wayne) Moorman-Minton and Beth (Kevin) Cragg; grandchildren, Amanda (Dan), Tracy (Don), Matthew (Stephanie), Taylor, Zachary (Kaitie), Benjamin (Nate), Rachel (Shantanu), Eric, Kayla (Andrew), and Kelsey; eleven great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents and Janice, Dale was preceded in death by a grandson-in-law, a great-granddaughter, five sisters, and three brothers.

Funeral services will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, July 11, 2025, at Colwood Church in Caro with Rev. Randy Carpenter officiating. A private burial will take place later in the day at the Almer Township Cemetery. Dale’s family will be present to receive visitors at the church on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 11:30 a.m. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to Colwood Church.