Dale Orlo Wolcott
Dale “Gabby” Orlo Wolcott passed away on April 30, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones.
He was born on Sept. 5, 1934, in Claridon Township, Ohio, to Robert O. and Fern I. (née Varney) Wolcott.
Dale proudly served his country in the United States Army and remained active in his community throughout his life. He was a member of the VFW and the Eagles, participated in Chardon High School alumni activities and served as president of the Jaycees, a community service organization.
He was a retired Teamster, driving for many years at Rimes Trucking in Chardon.
Dale had a wide range of interests that brought him joy over the years. He was a devoted fan of Cleveland sports, especially the Browns and Indians, and enjoyed NASCAR and wrestling.
He loved to travel with his life partner, Kathy, with trips to Hawaii and a particularly memorable vacation to Hong Kong among his favorites. In his younger years and beyond, he enjoyed listening to country rock music, riding motorcycles and driving his Trans Ams, and was an avid downhill skier.
Affectionately known as “Gabby” since his teenage years—a nickname given with a touch of irony, as he was never known to be especially talkative—Dale showed his love in quieter ways. He deeply cherished family gatherings and treasured time spent reminiscing and connecting with friends and loved ones. His warmth and presence were always felt, even when words were few. He had a special place in his heart for his grandchildren, who brought him much joy.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Scarleth Cabrera, who for the past five years has been an invaluable part of Dale’s life, providing loving care and companionship, along with her husband, Donald Dodt (Kathy’s Brother), and their son, Jeff Dodt. The family will be forever grateful.
Dale is survived by his son, Mike (Kathy) Wolcott; his daughter, Kelly (Ken) Skorepa; his grandchildren, Beverly (Henry) Earhart, Reade Wolcott, Josh Croyle, Katie Bukky, Beth (Blake Engfer) Croyle, Ken Skorepa II, Ron Skorepa, Debby Skorepa and Art (Annie) Skorepa; and eight great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Fern Wolcott; his brothers, Varney, Jack and Bill Wolcott; his sister, Shirley Whiting; and his life partner, Kathy Walker.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Burr Funeral Home, 116 South St., Chardon, Ohio, followed by a memorial service celebrating Dale’s life.
Following the service, a procession will take place to Maple Hill Cemetery for a graveside committal. Immediately afterwards, family and friends are invited to attend a gathering at the VFW, 752 Chardon Road, in Chardon.
As an alternative to sending flowers for the service, donations will be made in Dale’s name to Reserve Care, www.reserve-care.org (formerly Hospice of the Western Reserve).
Arrangements are entrusted to The Original Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.burrservice.com.
