Dale F. Schuster

DEERFIELD - With love in our hearts, we celebrate the life of Dale Francis Schuster, who passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at Agrace HospiceCare, just days before his 77th birthday.

Born on May 1, 1948, in Dubuque, Iowa, Dale was the beloved son of Elmer and Margaret (Greenwood) Schuster. From his early years at St. John’s Placid Elementary to his graduation from Western Dubuque High School in Epworth, Dale built a life grounded in faith, hard work, and love of family. Shortly after high school, Dale answered the call to serve his country during the Vietnam War, a reflection of his deep sense of duty and courage.

In 1971, Dale married the love of his life, Sharon Kay Cruise. Together, they built a beautiful life marked by devotion, laughter, and adventure. Dale spent more than 25 years working with Koppes Drywall, mastering his craft with pride and dedication. Dale and Sharon poured their hearts into two restaurants they owned, Sherry’s Kozy Kitchen in Deerfield and The Schuster’s Westside Inn in Columbus. These establishments were not just businesses - they were places where friendships were formed and memories were made.

Family meant everything to Dale. He was a loving husband, to Sharon Kay Schuster, a proud father to Kari (Tim) Bolger and Kristina O’Kane, and a beaming grandfather to Ashlyn Bolger, Kennedy O’Kane, Meghan Bolger, Ellisyn O’Kane, and Paige O’Kane. His warmth, humor, and steadfast support will live on in their hearts and stories.

Dale’s legacy also lives on in his siblings, Donald (Judy) Schuster, Anna Mae (Bill) Hoefer, and Larry Schuster. He is now reunited in peace with his parents, Elmer and Margaret, and his siblings, James Schuster, Frederick "Fred" Schuster, David Schuster, Linda Schuster, and Joseph Schuster, who passed away at birth.

Dale lived a life rich with love, loyalty, and laughter. He had a gift for making everyone feel welcome and cared for, and his quiet strength was a source of comfort to all who knew him.

A celebration of Sharon and Dale’s wonderful life will be held at GUNDERSON OREGON FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 1150 Park St., Oregon, at 1 p.m. on Monday, June 23, 2025, with Todd McVey presiding. Food and fellowship to follow the service. A visitation will take place at the funeral home from 11 a.m. until the time of the service on Monday. A graveside service with military honors will take place at HIGHLAND MEMORY GARDENS, 3054 County Highway BB, Cottage Grove, at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, June 24, 2025.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420