Elder

J. Dale Elder, 72, of West Sunbury, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his family and friends the morning of Thursday, Aug. 28, 2025, after a short battle with cancer.

Born April 18, 1953, in Butler, he was the son of the late Charles and Ruby (Thompson) Elder. He graduated from Moniteau High School in 1971. Following graduation, he worked for Cooper Bessemer for 27 years until its closing. He retired from Chase Industries in Leechburg. He was a member of the Sons of the American Legion Post 243.

Dale loved spending his time with his family and friends. His best memories were made outdoors. On any given day, you could find him mowing grass or baling hay in all of the nearby fields. His absolute favorite pastime was fishing on his boat and watching NASCAR races with his loving and devoted friends. Dale and his wife, Cindy, loved spending time at their camp with their many dogs. Dale will be missed dearly by all who loved and knew him.

Surviving are his daughters, Melissa (Ryan) Shearer, of West Sunbury, and Heather (Travis) Altmire, of Eau Claire; two stepdaughters, Stacy Henry, of Grove City, and Tiffany (John) Dunworth, of Mercer; one stepson, Justin “Jesse” Henry, of Grove City; three grandchildren, Evan, Gabrielle and Alexis; and six stepgrandchildren. Also surviving are his brother, Thomas (Ruth) Elder, of West Sunbury; and three nephews.

Dale was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Ruby Elder; his sister, Anna Kozak; and beloved wife, Cindy.

ELDER — Family and friends of J. Dale Elder, who died Thursday, Aug. 28, 2025, will be received for visitation from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 30, at WILLIAM F. YOUNG FUNERAL HOME, 132 Main St., West Sunbury. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. with his stepdaughter, Stacy, officiating.

Dale will be laid to rest beside his wife, Cindy, at West Sunbury Union Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Dale’s memory may be made to the West Sunbury American Legion, P.O. Box 198, West Sunbury, PA 16061.

If desired, online condolences may be sent to www.williamfyoungfh.com.

Please sign the guest book at www.butlereagle.com.