(A Legacy Of Hard Work & Kindness)
Dale Eugene Sperling, age 72, of Liberty Center, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly of natural causes at his home on Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026.
He was born in Mount Vernon on Aug. 17, 1953, to the late Raymond and Margaret (Walton) Sperling. Dale was a 1971 graduate of Liberty Center High School.
He went on to build a long and dedicated career as a heavy equipment operator with International Union of Operating Engineers Local 18, where he was respected for his strong work ethic and skill in his trade.
Dale had a deep love for nature and the outdoors. He found great joy in fishing, birdwatching, and woodworking, and he especially treasured the quiet moments spent in the natural world. He also devoted time to serving as a Scout Leader, guiding and mentoring young people with patience and encouragement.
He is survived by his children, Jason (Jacqueline) Sperling of Ridgeville Corners, Ohio; Amanda (Myron) Vaughn of Swanton; Ian (Lyndsey) Sperling of Sylvania; Dalton Sperling of Fayette; and Rhianna Woodring of Lancaster County, Ohio; his brother, Kerry Sperling of Liberty Center; sisters, Bonnie (Steve) Timbrook of Hicksville, Ohio, and Christina Grenert of South Bend, Indiana; as well as eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Bennett Sperling.
In accordance with his wishes, there will be no public services. Arrangements and cremation have been entrusted to Barnes Funeral Chapel and Crematory, 5825 State Highway 109, Delta, Ohio.
Those wishing to express sympathy are encouraged to consider a memorial contribution to the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 840692, Dallas, Texas 75284, in Dale’s memory.
Messages of comfort and condolences may be shared with the family through the funeral home’s website at www.barnesfuneralchapel.com.