Dale Schrier

Dale Schrier, a longtime resident of Hill City, S.D., passed away Oct. 26, 2026 at home, at the age of 89. 

He was born June 14, 1937 in Corning, Iowa, to Clarence and Violet (Smith) Schrier. 

Dale and Dolores were married in 1958.  In 1969, Dale and Dolores “Dee” Schrier, moved their family from their farm in Iowa to Hill City, where they would establish deep roots and build a lasting family legacy.

A hardworking log truck driver and rancher, Dale spent many years traveling between Hill City and Spearfish, S.D./Hulett, Wyo. for work. Despite long hours and time away from home, he made every effort to support his five children in their athletic pursuits. Whether driving through the night to attend football games or arriving at a basketball game still covered in the dirt of a long workday, Dale found ways to show up for the people he loved.

His commitment to Hill City extended well beyond his own family. Dale served on the Hill City School Board during the 1970s and, alongside Dee, was actively involved in supporting school athletics and community activities.

For nearly 56 years, Dale had a child or grandchild attending Hill City schools, a remarkable connection that reflected his family’s deep ties to the community.

Dale was a man who loved his family, his community, and the simple pleasures of everyday life. He was loved by so many, and his presence was woven into the fabric of Hill City. From early mornings shoveling snow in front of his beloved wife Dee’s shop in town to sharing coffee, cookies and conversation, Dale found joy in the familiar routines and friendships that made Hill City home.

He was a familiar face to generations of residents, and his contributions to the community went far beyond the football and track fields, volleyball and basketball courts. It was the everyday moments, the friendships and the countless small acts of kindness that made Dale someone people knew and loved. RIP Hay-Bailer.

Sons, Howard (Sharon) Schrier of Rockerville, S.D.; Dennis (Meredith) Schrier of Hill City; David (Sue) Schrier of Rapid City, S.D.; daughter, Ranae (Norman Oestreich) Schrier of Hill City; brother-in-law, Duane Petty (Diane); nine grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. Nephew Daryl (Peg) Schrier Cumberland, Iowa.

Visitation was held 5-7 p.m., Friday, Oct. 30 at Chamberlain McColley’s Funeral Home in Custer, S.D.

Funeral services were held at 1 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 1 at Hill City High School Theater in Hill City. Committal services followed at Hill City Cemetery in Hill City. A luncheon followed at the Hill City Center afterward. 

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Dale’s name to the Hill City School District annual scholarship fund and the Hill City Ambulance. 

Arrangements have been placed under the local care of Chamberlain McColley’s Funeral Home in Custer.