In Loving Memory
In loving memory of Dale R . Schmitz
July 17 , 1961 – January 17 , 2024
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dale Roger Schmitz , a cherished son , brother , uncle , and friend .
Dale ’ s life , marked by his unwavering faith , love for farming , dedication to firefighting , and profound commitment to family and friends , has left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him .
Dale ’ s journey began on July 17 , 1961 , in Waconia , born to Roger and JoAnn ( Notermann ) Schmitz . Raised on the family farm , Dale ’ s passion for agriculture bloomed from an early age . Whether tending to cattle or maneuvering a tractor through the fields , Dale ’ s connection to the land was unwavering .
His career path led him to Mid-County Co-op , where for 35 years , Dale served as an agronomy applicator and later as an integral member of the Fuel and LP Gas team .
His dedication to his work extended beyond his role ; he was a trusted colleague and friend to many , known for his impeccable work ethic , kindness , and willingness to lend a helping hand .
Dale ’ s commitment to community safety
was exemplified through his 37 years of service as a volunteer firefighter in Cologne . His bravery in the face of danger , compassion in times of crisis , and selflessness in service will forever be remembered as foundational to the security of Cologne .
Outside of work and service , Dale cherished moments spent with loved ones , relishing in family vacations , and creating lasting memories with nieces , nephews , and greatnieces and nephews . His presence brought joy to gatherings , and his playful spirit endeared him to all .
Dale is preceded in death by his grandparents , Martin and Eleanore Schmitz , Arnold , and Evelyn Notermann . He is survived by his parents , Roger and JoAnn Schmitz ; sister Nancy ( Vern ) Elke ; brother Tom Schmitz ; nieces and nephews Mackenzie ( Shane ) Lobitz , Kelsey Bakeberg ( fiancé James Winterhalter ), and Mason Storms ; and great-nieces and nephews Elena Bakeberg , Brooks Lobitz , Carson Lobitz , and Cullen Bakeberg .
In honoring Dale ’ s memory , we celebrate a life well-lived , a legacy of kindness , and a spirit of unwavering dedication . Though he may no longer walk among us , his presence will forever be felt in our hearts .
Tributes from Co-Workers :
“ I worked with Dale for 16 of the 35 years he worked at Mid-County . He was a softspoken guy who knew his customers and his job very well . He was the expert on propane
deliveries and had a great memory . He had all the answers if you needed to know anything about propane or his route . He also was a bit of a jokester who liked to do or say things to see if he could get a reaction out of us . He fought hard when he found out he had cancer . You could tell by looking at him that he was in a lot of pain and didn ’ t feel well , but he still managed to work pretty much every day , and even when he wasn ’ t here , he was always available by phone for questions . He was a dedicated employee and is greatly missed by many .” - Julie Clemensen
“ It is so hard to sum up what Dale meant to us here at the Coop in a few words . He was so knowledgeable in his job as the lead propane driver and a huge asset to the agronomy department , helping out during their busy season ! His customers loved him , and he knew almost everything you needed to know about propane tanks ! When you asked him a question about any of his customers , he could give you an answer in seconds ! He was certainly a dedicated employee . What I will miss most about him is his sassy smile and how he played jokes on me daily ! It was a pleasure working with him . Dale was a friend , a colleague , and an awesome member of our Community ! He will be forever in our hearts , and we miss him !” - Diane Beckrich
Dale ’ s memory lives on in the lives he touched and the legacy of love and service he leaves behind .
COLOGNE Great Deals Good Through April 24 , 2024
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