Dale H. Otake, 74, passed away at 9:05 a.m. Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at Allure of Lake Storey.
Dale was born September 6, 1952, in Chicago, Illinois, the son of Paul Morio and Chris Kikue (Natsuhori) Otake. He graduated from Lane Tech College Prep High School in Chicago.
Dale was, in every sense of the word, a free spirit. He was never one to simply follow the crowd or worry too much about what was expected of him. Dale had his own way of looking at life and, more importantly, his own way of living it. His adventurous nature eventually led him west to San Diego, California, where he found a life that suited him perfectly.
In San Diego, Dale embraced the California lifestyle and his love of the outdoors. He enjoyed surfing, fishing, and being near the water. Whether he was out chasing the next wave, casting a line, or simply enjoying the freedom of the moment, Dale seemed most at home when life was a little less structured and a lot more interesting. He also enjoyed playing his bodhrán, the traditional Irish drum, adding another unique rhythm to a life that was certainly lived to its own beat.
Dale was a one-of-a-kind character who marched to the beat of his own drum—sometimes quite literally. He appreciated adventure, independence, music, and the freedom to simply be himself. Those who knew Dale will remember his unconventional spirit, his love of life, and the stories and memories that came from knowing someone who never quite fit into an ordinary mold.
Left to cherish Dale’s memory are his two brothers, Roy and Dean Otake; his nephew, Paul Otake; and his companion and special friend, Kate, and her daughter, Megan McGrath. He was preceded in death by his parents.
True to Dale’s wishes, he will return to nature through a natural burial at Casper Creek Natural Cemetery in Galena, Illinois, on Friday, October 16, 2026, at 3:00 pm.
Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services Galesburg Chapel is assisting his family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.h-p-w.com.
