Dale “MadDog” Messmer—a proud Marine, Vietnam veteran, and man transformed by grace—has gone home to Heaven. His widow, DeeDee, now faces months of financial hardship while awaiting uncertain VA survivor benefits. Your support helps her stay afloat, honor Dale’s legacy, and keep a roof over her head during this difficult time.

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On October 13, 2025, Dale Duwayne “MadDog” Messmer, aged 75 years, stepped into Heaven, leaving behind his beloved wife, DeeDee, and a legacy of courage, redemption, and service to others.

Dale was a Vietnam veteran and a man whose life story—of rebellion, redemption, and grace—touched thousands across the country through his Straight Talk Outreach Program (STOP). He dedicated over two decades to helping young people make better choices and avoid the mistakes he made.

Now, in the wake of Dale’s passing, DeeDee faces a difficult reality. Along with losing her husband, she has suddenly lost the household’s income stream, including Dale’s Social Security and VA benefits. Unfortunately, the VA survivor benefit process is slow and uncertain. The VA has already suggested she may not be entitled to benefits—a statement now being reviewed with legal counsel. Even with help, this process may take a year or more to resolve.

In the meantime, making ends meet is nearly impossible. Selling their home, securing new housing, and managing the debts that were once manageable with two incomes is an overwhelming burden for any widow to bear. Family members are doing all they can to assist, but the reality is that DeeDee needs a bridge—a bit of breathing room and community support to keep her on her feet while the VA and legal systems run their course.

Dale spent half of his life serving others—first as a Marine, then as a messenger of redemption. It’s unimaginable to think he would rest easy knowing his wife might lose everything they built together.

This GoFundMe honors Dale by making sure his widow is not left behind. Whether you are a veteran, a fellow widow or widower, a friend, or simply someone moved by compassion, your help makes a real difference.

Every contribution—large or small—helps DeeDee keep the lights on, maintain stability, and navigate this incredibly difficult season.

If you can’t give financially, please know that your prayers mean the world to the family.

Thank you for standing with DeeDee, for honoring Dale’s memory, and for helping carry forward the same heart of compassion he showed so many.

“No Marine left behind.” Dale lived that—and now, together, we can live it too.