The motorsports community and the town of Cortland are mourning the sudden loss of Dale J. Planck, a revered figure in the world of racing and a beloved local personality. Dale, 53, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, June 22, 2024. Known to many as “The Natural,” Dale’s passing leaves a void that extends far beyond the race tracks he dominated for over three decades.
Dale was born on July 16, 1970, to Dennis and Barbara Kniffen Planck. Growing up on Rob San Drive in Homer, Dale’s early life was marked by a strong sense of community and a passion for cars. He graduated from Homer High School in 1988, already known for his fascination with speed and mechanics. His childhood friends remember him as a boy who could often be found tinkering with go-karts and dreaming of racing glory.
His racing career began humbly but quickly gained momentum as he transitioned from local dirt tracks to becoming a household name in the eastern United States racing circuit. Over his illustrious career, Dale amassed more than two hundred feature wins and clinched eleven track championships along with four series championships. Three of these were under the prestigious NASCAR regional title banner, cementing his reputation as a formidable competitor and a master of his craft.
Dale’s racing moniker, “The Natural,” was a testament to his innate talent and understanding of the sport. His peers and fans admired not only his skill behind the wheel but also his sportsmanship and dedication to the racing community. He was inducted into various Halls of Fame, recognizing his contributions and achievements in motorsports. Despite his competitive nature, Dale was always ready to lend a helping hand to fellow racers, sharing his knowledge and encouraging young talent.
After retiring from racing, Dale channeled his passion into nurturing the next generation of racers. Since 2016, he had been working closely with his son Brandon at Dig Race Products in Cortland, a business they co-founded. Their focus on northeast dirt modified shocks and suspension tuning showcased Dale’s continued commitment to the sport. He found immense satisfaction in helping other racers build their teams and develop their driving skills, always striving to push the boundaries of what was possible in racing technology.
Beyond the race tracks, Dale was a devoted family man. His loving wife of 35 years, Leslie M. Stone Planck, stood by his side through the highs and lows of his career. Their bond was a cornerstone of Dale’s life, providing him with unwavering support and grounding him in the values of love and family. Together, they raised two sons, Stephen and Brandon, who inherited their father’s passion for racing and engineering. Dale’s joy knew no bounds when he became a grandfather to Autumn Santamour, Lilly Planck, and Everly Planck. He cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren, often sharing stories of his racing adventures and teaching them about cars.
Dale’s siblings, Crystal Meyers, Renee Claassen, Patrick Hutchins, Ray Ortlieb, and Billy Joe Sykes, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins, remember him as a pillar of strength and a source of inspiration. His family recalls countless gatherings where Dale’s infectious enthusiasm for life and racing would light up the room. He was always ready with a smile, a word of encouragement, and a willingness to help those in need.
The news of Dale’s untimely death has been met with an outpouring of grief and tributes from the racing community, friends, and fans. Messages of condolence have flooded in, with many sharing personal anecdotes of how Dale touched their lives. Fellow racers have spoken of his generosity, his willingness to share tips and advice, and his unwavering passion for the sport. Fans remember him as a hero on the tracks and a gentleman off them, always taking the time to engage with those who supported him.
Services to honor Dale’s memory will be held over two days. Calling hours are scheduled for Thursday, June 27, 2024, from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. at the Donald L. Barber Funeral Home, 5016 U.S. Route 11, Homer. The memorial service will take place at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, June 28, 2024, at the same location. These gatherings will offer family, friends, and the broader community an opportunity to pay their respects and celebrate Dale’s remarkable life.
The family has expressed their heartfelt appreciation for the emergency response team’s efforts and the overwhelming support from family, friends, and Dale’s fans. They have found solace in the numerous messages of love and condolence, which highlight the profound impact Dale had on so many lives. The family invites those who wish to leave memorial condolences to visit www.DonaldLBarberFuneralHome.com.
Dale’s legacy extends beyond his achievements on the race track. He leaves behind a blueprint of dedication, perseverance, and generosity. His life serves as an example of how passion, when coupled with hard work and kindness, can lead to an extraordinary impact on the world. As the community mourns his loss, they also celebrate the indelible mark he left on the world of racing and the lives of those who knew him.
In the wake of Dale’s passing, the motorsports community is reminded of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. Dale’s story is one of triumph and resilience, a narrative that will continue to inspire racers and fans alike. His contributions to the sport and his dedication to nurturing future talent ensure that his legacy will endure for generations.
As the family navigates this difficult time, they find comfort in the shared memories and the collective support of the community. Dale J. Planck’s life was a testament to the power of passion, family, and community. His spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved him, and his legacy will continue to inspire and guide the racing world he so dearly cherished.
