Dale Avery

Dale Avery, 80, of Paw Paw, passed away Tuesday, December 21, 2021, at his home.

Dale lived his life as a devoted educator and family man. He was born August 29, 1941, in Jackson, Michigan, the son of the late Ronald Avery and Josephine (Lamb) Avery. Following high school, Dale went to Central Michigan University where he earned his bachelor's degree. While there, he became a member of the Sigma Tau Gamma Fraternity, serving as President. Dale then attended Wayne State University where he earned his master’s degree. For 39 years, Dale was employed with the Taylor Public Schools, beginning his career as a history teacher, moving into counseling and shifting into administration as an assistant principal at West Junior High School and then principal of the Titan Program, an alternative educational option for Taylor students.

Working as a history teacher went hand-in-hand with his passion for Civil War history. He visited many of the historic sites and battlefields over the years, accompanied by his wife Jeanne and family. He took his extensive Civil War knowledge and enthusiasm into the classroom in retirement in Civil War garb, sharing his passion with daughter Tiffany’s students. He was involved in his children’s lives (Todd, Thad, and Tiffany) through coaching football, baseball, hockey, basketball and softball and cheering them on in their theatrical endeavors, appearing on stage several times himself.

Dale was a selfless family man, making many sacrifices to put them first. Dale's love for his family extended to his students who loved him dearly over the years. He was always determined to help others and make a difference. He has been a longtime active member of the Paw Paw Lions Club, where he was currently serving as Vice President. He loved helping at BINGO, serving in the kitchen for meetings, assisting at the annual duck race and packing and delivery packages for the Christmas basket program. Dale was also a member of the American Battlefield Trust. He was a lifelong golfer and avid Redwings fan. Dale also enjoyed fishing and was proud to have participated in the Detroit Free Press Turkey Trot.

On October 12, 1963, Dale was united in marriage to Jean (Lemke) Avery who survives.

He is also survived by his two sons, Todd (Penny) Avery and Thad (Cheryl) Avery; one daughter, Tiffany (Shani) Avery-Scott; honorary adopted son, Thomas (Debbie) Karadeema, five grandchildren, Benjamin (Katie) Avery, Zachary (Ashley) Avery, Spencer (Rachael) Avery, Grace Avery and Baxter Avery-Scott; one sister, Sandra (John) McRae; two brothers, Gary (Susie) Avery and Richard (Karen) Avery; three brother in laws, Clyde (Carol) Lemke, Chuck (Teresa) Lemke and Edward (Nancy) Lemke. He was anxiously awaiting the birth of his first great grandchild.

Family and friends may visit Monday, December 27, 2021, from 12:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. at the Adams Funeral Home, 502 West Michigan Ave., Paw Paw, where a celebration of life will follow at 3:30 p.m. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Paw Paw Lions Club Christmas Basket Program or the American Battlefield Trust.