Dale S. Penwell, 90, of Toms River, passed away Sunday, April 26, 2026, in Holmdel.  Born in Hartford, Michigan; he resided in Chambersburg, PA before moving to Toms River 10 years ago.

Dale served in the US Air Force from 1954-1958.  During his time in the service he was stationed in Okinawa and Iwo Jima.  While serving, Dale was a semi-pro baseball pitcher and his skill helped him see the world as he traveled in support of military teams.  A major arm injury cut short a promising career.

After attaining two Master’s Degree’s, Dale worked as a special education teacher.  He most recently retired as a special education administrator after working for 15 years with the State of West Virginia Department of Education .  He was very proud of his career and took pride in the difference he made in his students both as a teacher and advocate for them.

In his free time, Dale loved fly fishing.  He was a member of Trout Unlimited and supported Project Healing Waters, Wounded Warriors and the Special Olympics.  He loved baseball, especially the Mets and was very proud to be a dedicated library card holder.

Dale enjoyed time with his family, whether it was on a vacation at the Jersey Shore, especially Island Beach State Park and, Seaside or getting together for family holidays.

Dale is survived by his wife of 60 years, Kathleen Patrick Penwell, two daughters, Amy Penwell (Jesse Yallof), Linda Penwell-Celkupa (Jordan), one son, Michael Penwell, four grandchildren, Jacob and Sky Yallof, Hunter and Lena Celkupa and one sister, Ruth Ellen Wilkens.

Visitation will be held 10am to 12pm, Friday, May 1, 2026, at the Holmdel Funeral Home, 26 South Holmdel, Road, Holmdel, NJ 07733.  Funeral services will be held at 12pm.  Inurnment of cremains will be held at a later date with Air Force Honors at the Brig. General William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dale’s name to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Wounded Warriors or Trout Unlimited.