Dale Melvin Witte

September 14, 1945 – August 24, 2025

Dale Melvin Witte, age 79, of Indianapolis, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 24, 2025. Born in Davenport, Iowa, Dale was the beloved son of the late Donald and Pauline Witte. He grew up on a farm in Cedar County, Iowa, where he learned the values of hard work, perseverance, and community that shaped the rest of his life.

Dale is survived by his sons David (Susan) Witte of Reisterstown, Maryland and Daniel (Minju) Witte of Indianapolis, Indiana, along with four cherished grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, sister Barbara (Bob) Roelf of Iowa City, Iowa and brother Dennis (the late Susan) Witte of Urbandale, Iowa.

A proud graduate of the University of Iowa, Dale earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1967. Shortly after graduation, he moved to Indianapolis and began a distinguished 38-year career at Eli Lilly and Company as a systems analyst, serving from 1967 until his retirement in 2005.

Dale was a gifted athlete in his youth, excelling as a star basketball and baseball player in high school. His lifelong passion for sports extended far beyond his playing days, as he became a devoted fan and mentor, coaching and supporting his children and grandchildren in their athletic pursuits. He remained a loyal University of Iowa Hawkeyes’ fan throughout his life, traveling extensively to watch his beloved team play. Dale also enthusiastically supported the hometown Indianapolis Colts, Pacers, and Fever, while maintaining his lifelong allegiance to the Dodgers, from their days in Brooklyn and then Los Angeles.

Known for his wonderful sense of humor and generous spirit, Dale was always ready to lend a helping hand—whether mowing a lawn, assisting with landscaping, assembling furniture, or painting a bedroom. He was equally available for a friendly card game or engaging conversation with family and friends. Both at work and at home, Dale was recognized as a thought leader and trusted problem-solver, valued by colleagues and loved ones alike for his wisdom and partnership.

In his final years at Marquette, Dale developed a wonderful community of friends who enriched his life and brought him great joy.

Dale will be remembered as a devoted father, grandfather, and brother whose love, humor, and unwavering support touched the lives of all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Dale's honor may be made to the University of Iowa Foundation: foriowa.org.

A celebration of life for Dale will be held Tuesday, August 26, 2025 at 1:00 PM at Leppert Mortuary - Nora Chapel, 740 E. 86th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana followed by a gathering from 1:30 - 3:30 PM.