Dale A. Bruhl, Jr.

In Loving Memory of Dale August Bruhl Jr.

Dale August Bruhl Jr., 77, of Maumee, Ohio, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2024, after a courageous two-month fight against a rare form of brain cancer. Dale was an amazing Husband, Father, and friend to hundreds, and he lived a life full of heart, humor, and an unwavering love for his family and friends.

Dale was kind, thoughtful and grateful throughout his life. Naturally happy, he was always quick with a smile and a playful jab. He was known for his generosity with friends, family, and strangers alike. He wouldn't shy away from a good debate, but his arguments were always laced with kindness and respect for others’ opinions. His thoughtful approach to every situation showcased profound wisdom, making him a role model to admire and emulate. Fearless to embrace new experiences, Dale achieved several remarkable accomplishments throughout his life. He was also a true entrepreneur, starting with the ice cream business alongside his dad and then taking on numerous ventures ranging from car washes to computer programming before starting Toledo Home Insulation.

Finally, he found his niche in 1983 and started Midwest Environmental Control which grew in success leading him to start a second branch in California, employing and working alongside hundreds of employees whom he truly loved and appreciated. He was particularly proud of passing on the reins of his business to his sons, Dale III and David, ensuring his legacy lived on. Beyond work, Dale loved his time as a private pilot, flying through the skies for both work and play in his twin engine Beechcraft Baron. He loved to explore the world, especially later in life with his wife Patricia, as well as his children and grandchildren. Some of his favorite trips included multiple visits to Italy, Spain, France and Ireland.

Closer to home, he was known for his love of fireworks and for decades hosted a yearly 4th of July extravaganza which he greatly enjoyed. He also enjoyed engaging in weekly poker games with close friends and was constantly seeking out new projects and adventures, demonstrating a longstanding enthusiasm for both recreation and personal challenges. He also started a Saturday morning breakfast tradition that brought together his children, grandchildren, and even his own father back in the day. This tradition continued with his wife Patricia, becoming a cherished ritual that lasted until his passing.

Dale leaves behind a loving family, including his loving wife Patricia who bravely stood by his side till the very end, 9 children he cherished with his former wife Madonna, Susan (Lonnie) Minor, Dale III (Amy), Steven (Laurel), Michael, David (Kimberly), Katie, Eric (Alisha), Adam, and Tiffany (Adam) Sayre, stepchild Athnie, sister Suzanne, 25 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren. He joins his father Dale, mother Josephine “Patricia”, daughter Donna-Sue, and grandson Nathaniel in peace.

A time of visiting will be held on Friday, February 16th at 5 pm at Walker Funeral Homes at 5155 W Sylvania Ave. Toledo, OH 43623 with a celebration of Dale's life beginning at 6 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family would suggest a donation in his honor to one of Dale's favorite charities, Cherry Street Mission, Toledo Ohio.

Dale, or "Rusty" as some knew him, will be deeply missed by all who loved his genuine spirit and kind heart.