Dale E. Martin, 94, of Chambersburg, PA, passed away in the comfort of his home on April 13, 2025. He was born October 9, 1930 in Chambersburg, PA to Paul H. and Dorothy B. (Brandt) Martin.  He retired from U.S. Army Depot System Command (DESCOM) at Letterkenny Army Depot in 1989 as a Supply Systems Analyst Supervisor.

Dale had many passions including world travel, art classes, oil painting, and spending time at the beach with family. Furthermore, his greatest passion revolved around the cultivation, exhibition, and hybridization of roses.

A true master of the craft, Dale created a nationally acclaimed rose garden at his home, nurturing over 500 rose bushes. In 1967, he founded the South Penn Area Rose Society, serving as president and newsletter editor, and later contributed as a guest editor of the American Rose Annual (1979-1980).  His passion led him to hybridize seven of his own roses, many of which are officially registered with the American Rose Society.

Over the past seven decades, Dale was a decorated, accomplished, and published rosarian highly recognized for his pioneer spirit, leadership, and innovations.  He won numerous prestigious awards and trophies throughout his lifetime including the Guy Blake Hedrick Award given by the American Rose Society for life long achievement of excellence, 4 National Queen awards, and 19 Penn Jersey District McFarland Memorial trophies.

While all those things were important to him, nothing compared to his love for the Lord. Dale was a kind, gentle, and humble man, whose wit could make anyone laugh. Those who met Dale will never forget his warmth and gentle spirit inspiring all who knew him. Dale was a devoted member of Mount Olivet United Brethren Church where he faithfully served as a teacher, class leader, elder, treasurer, and singer.

Surviving is his beloved wife Elaine H. Martin, whom he married 74 years ago on December 9, 1950; children: Timothy Martin, Todd Martin, Lora Martin; grandchildren: Jason Martin, David Martin, Shawn Martin, Brandon Watkins; great-grandchildren: Ashlin Yates, Justin Martin, Kristin Martin, Brehann Dash, Elizabeth Martin, Jilaina Martin;  three great-great grandchildren; siblings: Faye Cramer, Cleone Hawkesworth.

In addition to his parents, Dale was preceded in death by Marvin Martin, Wayne Martin, Joyce Lindner, and Dorothy Edda Martin.

The funeral will be held on Tuesday, April 22nd at Mount Olivet United Brethren Church (8204 Ft. McCord Rd, Chambersburg, PA 17202).  Visitation will begin at 12:00pm followed by a celebration of life service at 12:30pm, which will be officiated by Pastor Stan McCammon.  Burial will continue at Brechbill Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Dale’s name may be made to Mount Olivet United Brethren Church. 

Kelso-Cornelius Funeral Home, Ltd., Chambersburg has been entrusted with these services. Online condolences may be expressed at www.kelsocorneliusfh.com.