Dale William Wortman Mr.

Dale William Wortman, 60, of Lawrenceville, went home November 15 after a valiant battle against pancreatic cancer during which he showed the indomitable faith that carried him through a life's journey with his best friend--his wife Beth--and four children: Caitlin, Emily, Patrick, and Matthew. The child of parents brought together by World War II, Dale was born in Louisiana and raised in Los Angeles. Dale moved his family to Lawrenceville 25 years ago after serving his country for eight years in the Air Force. As a man of strong faith, he came to know the Lord after the birth of his children and demonstrated his love for Christ by regularly playing music and  singing in church choirs, leading a baptism class, helping with Sunday school, and coaching in church sports leagues.  Devoted to his family, Dale immersed himself in their passions. That meant coaching numerous sports teams and learning the names of the top ice skaters or female NCAA basketball players so he could be a part of what his children loved. A jack of all trades and man of varied talents, he taught himself the guitar, drums, banjo, mandolin, tin whistle, and dulcimer.  As a self-taught handyman, Dale had the ability to fix anything--whether it be an automobile, hot water heater, or computer. He had the rare combination of an analytical mind and great creativity that flowed through his photography, calligraphy, woodworking, love of Irish music, and musicals.  Dale was passionate about his Atlanta Braves and the Georgia Bulldogs. Although he was never able to travel to Japan, Dale honored his heritage by learning about and visiting Japanese gardens and  discovering Japanese dishes that he could share with his family. He was the family chef which meant a lot to him and his family. Dale’s co-workers at the American Panel Corporation demonstrated their appreciation for his friendship and mentoring by showing up in force to bid him farewell in his last visit to work earlier this year. Though a quiet man, he boldly shared his testimony of faith with over one hundred co-workers in what was his last gift and bit of wisdom that he could give them. His family and friends suffer a heavy heart, but are comforted by the realization that Dale lived every day to the fullest, touched the hearts and minds of everyone he met, and ultimately went home to his Savior on a crisp November morning. When you left Dale’s presence, you were smiling. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, November 19, 2013 at 11:00 AM at Wages & Sons , 1031 Lawrenceville Hwy, Lawrenceville, GA30046 (770-277-4550). In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be given to Journey Hospice. https://www.journeyhospice.com