Dale L. Schmidt 1951-2024

Born in Salem, on Sept. 20, 1951, the son of the late George A. and Virginia Sam Schmidt, he was a beloved member of his community and family.

A talented musician, Dale attended the Dana School of Music at Youngstown State University. He was a member of the Pythagorean Theorem and Daybreak bands, and then he joined the band Sir Bentley. He spent several years playing guitar and traveling with Sir Bentley throughout the country. In 1985, he opened Daybreak Music, a cornerstone of the Cortland community, where he instilled and spread a love for music to thousands of people throughout Northeast Ohio. As owner of Daybreak, he touched many lives with his love for music and his knack for connecting with people.

Dale’s upbeat and hilarious nature made him a beloved figure. Always ready to listen and chat, always with a witty joke, he brought warmth and laughter to everyone he met. Dale was so gracious, dependable, happy and interested in the lives of those he loved. He made those around him feel special because of the way he would intently listen and engage in conversation. When you spoke to him, you truly felt like the most important person in the room. He wrote and sang songs to his grandchildren who loved listening to him strum chords on the guitar. There are so many special moments and memories that will be forever cherished by his loved ones: vacations to Lakeside with the “ghost car,” patio donuts and coffees, and Whistle Stop ice cream. Shuffleboard will never be the same.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Leah Daugherty Schmidt; and his cherished daughter, Tara Haney, along with her husband, Nick. His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Seamus, Declan and Maeve, who brought immense joy to his life. He is also survived by his brother, Gary Schmidt; sister, Jill Khol (Timothy, deceased); brother-in-law, Frank Daugherty (Annette); and sister-in-law, Karen Knapp-Watkins (Kenny). Dale was a special uncle to Erika Schmidt, Craig Schmidt (Elaina), Justin Khol (Brittany), Adrienne Khol Hammill (Rob), Matthew Khol, Carrie (Michael) Richards, Erin (Brandon) Rickert, Nicholas Knapp and Christopher Knapp; and several great-nephews and -nieces. Dale also treasured his relationships with many special friends.

Calling hours will be 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2024, at the Waite Funeral Home, 765 N. Court St., Medina, OH 44256. The celebration of Mass and Christian Burial will be 10 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 7, 2024, at Holy Martyrs Church, 3100 Old Weymouth Road, Medina, OH 44256.

Interment will follow in Spring Grove Cemetery, Medina.

A celebration of life will be held in Cortland, at a later date.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.waitefuneralhome.com.

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