Of Hubertus, found peace on November 7, 2024 at the age of 76. Beloved husband for 52 years of Phyllis (nee Beaty). Proud Dad of Holly (Andrew) Modory, Heidi (Chad) Strelow, and Heather Schuldt. Loving Papa of Lennon, Wyatt, Gracie, and Greta. Brother of Donald (Nancy), Kurt (the late Sylvia), Karl (Jan), John (the late Sharon), and Jayne (Bob) Gardebrecht. Dale is further survived by many cousins, nieces, nephews, many other relatives, and friends.

In life, Dale dedicated himself to the service of others. He graduated from Germantown High School in 1966. A few years later, on January 1, 1968 he was drafted and joined the US Army. After completing Basic Training and Jungle School, he entered the Vietnam War as a Sergeant and valiantly served from May 1968-May 1969. On June 28, 1969, Dale was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with “V” Device for his heroic efforts during ground combat against an armed hostile enemy force in April of 1969 in the Republic of Vietnam. The Bronze Star was awarded to him for his bravery, outstanding leadership, and devotion to his duty to the US Army and the men he was responsible for. After his year in Vietnam, he was stationed at Fort Dix in New Jersey, where he served as a member of the Honor Guard Corps until he was honorably discharged in January of 1970.

After his time in the military, Dale joined the Carpenter’s Union and began a successful 30 year career as a carpenter and foreman, and honed his skills as a craftsman while working hundreds of side jobs for friends and family. During this time, he also became a collector of items that he thought could be potentially used for a job in the future. Upon “retirement,” he began mowing lawns for several friends and for Our Savior’s UCC in Germantown.

Dale took on some leadership roles at the Germantown VFW Post 9202, where he had been a member since 1995 and the American Legion Post 1, where he became a member in 2016. He also continued to do many projects to improve the Legion. He was the Grounds Chairman for the Moving Wall in 2016, and was awarded the Legionnaire of the Year in 2018. Dale also ran the annual Christmas Tree Lot for the VFW and hosted Bingo every Thursday night. In 2018, Dale was awarded the opportunity to participate in a flight for the Stars and Stripes Honor Flight, which had become another program he was vested in. Dale was also selected to be the Grand Marshall for the Germantown Christmas parade in 2023. Additionally, he took the lead on many projects at Our Savior’s UCC, including the Chili Supper. He also served as the Sexton for several years.

When Dale wasn’t working or at the Legion, you could find him in his workshop tinkering; or more importantly supporting and cheering on his grandkids in any sport or activity they were involved in.

Throughout life, other hobbies he enjoyed were camping, bike rides, going to friends’ lake house, and attending the bus trips with his church. Dale truly loved life, enjoyed attending any social function, and helping others. Most importantly, he loved spending time with his family and friends. He was a true blessing to anyone he met.

His family would like to express their gratitude for the compassion, kindness, and excellent care that Dale received at Froedtert Hospital, Froedtert Rehab, and Kathy Hospice in West Bend.

A cemetery graveside service will be held with military honors on November 23, 2024 at 11 am at Our Saviour’s UCC in Germantown.

Plans for a Celebration of Life at the Legion Hall at a later date will be forthcoming.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to consider making a donation to Horizon Kathy Hospice in West Bend or the Stars and Stripes Honor Flight in Dale’s honor.