Strangers continue to benefit from young shooting victim's kindness, legacy

WARREN

Sharon Lane recalled a Newton Falls High School ninth-grader who had moved in his freshman year from Kansas but who had no friends — that is, until her son, Dale A. Settle Jr., reached out to him.

“He sat by himself in the lunchroom,” the Newton Falls woman recounted.

It wasn’t long, however, before Settle took it upon himself to talk to and get to know the newcomer while helping him feel welcome in his new environment. Other peers soon followed suit and befriended the new student, Lane explained.

In addition to having helped the youngster adjust and feel more comfortable at his new school, Settle’s gesture is a natural byproduct of his caring and giving nature, many who knew him say.

Settle, a 2007 Newton Falls High graduate, continued to inspire, help and encourage others, including people he didn’t know, until he was shot to death while protecting two friends during a robbery Sept. 22, 2011, as the trio was en route to a Bible study. He died the next day at age 22.

More than three years after his death, many people continue to benefit from his legacy, including those who came to the D.A.L.E. Foundation’s fourth annual clothing and food drive and distribution Saturday at Warren’s Central Fire Station, 111 South St. SE.

D.A.L.E is an acronym for “Do A Little Extra.” The foundation aims to spread and encourage random kind acts, Lane said.

Read more about Saturday's event and the man who inspired it in Sunday's Vindicator or on Vindy.com.