Veteran small engine repair shop owner, magazine columnist and lifelong student of the game, Dale Stotts has passed away. He first recognized the cross-over opportunities existing between OPE (Outdoor Power Equipment) and Powersports when the first Kawasaki Mule came into his shop in Monett, Missouri, and he reached out to Dealernews to see how the other half lived. Sincerely going to miss comparing notes and sharing in Dale’s insights. Godspeed old friend. — RH
Dale was the first-born son of Vernon Dale Stotts and Mary Rae (Burns) Stotts on July 19, 1948. Dale was a longtime resident and businessman of Monett, MO. He began his education at the Plymouth Elementary School on Euclid Ave. and was part of the Monett High School graduating class of 1966. Dale furthered his education by attending Crowder College where he earned a degree in design drafting.
Upon the failing health and death of his father, Vernon, in May of 1970, Dale took over his father’s business Stotts Engine Service, established in 1960 here in Monett. Dale continued in the business working on most anything with a small engine until his death on May 23, 2021.
Dale met the love of his life, Jane Olson, the daughter of Henry and Mildred Olson. The two were married January 26, 1973 and enjoyed 47 years of true happiness. Dale and Jane were blessed with a beautiful baby girl February 13, 1977. Cynthia Dawn was indeed Dale’s pride and joy.
Dale was a Christian man, accepting Christ Jesus as his Lord and Savior early in his life at First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) here in Monett. Later he joined the First Baptist Church here in Monett with his wife Jane, where he remained an active member until his death.
Dale was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon and Mary Stotts, and his wife, Jane Stotts. He is survived by his daughter, Cynthia Nason and her husband Matt; his brother, David and his wife Cheryl; his niece, Lisa and her husband Justin and their son Jacob; his nephew, Ryan; and a host of friends.
