Dale R. Schmitz
July 17, 1961 – January 17, 2024
Dale Roger Schmitz, 62, of Cologne passed away Wednesday, January 17, 2024.
Memorial Mass of Christian Burial Saturday, January 27, 2024 at 11:00 A.M. at St. Bernard Catholic Church (210 Church Street East) in Cologne with Father Bill Peterson as Celebrant of the Mass. Visitation, Saturday, 9:00 A.M. – 11:00 A.M. at the church. Interment at St. Bernard Catholic Cemetery in Cologne.
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dale Schmitz, a dedicated son, brother, uncle, friend. Faith, farming, firefighting, family, and friends were the most important things in Dale’s life.
Dale was born in Waconia, July 17, 1961 to Roger and JoAnn (Notermann) Schmitz. Dale’s love for farming began early in his life. Growing up surrounded by the beauty of the land, he developed a passion for agriculture that would shape the course of his journey.
Growing up on the family farm, Dale always had a passion for raising beef cattle and hogs. Always waiting for the first day in the fields in spring and the start of fall harvest, if there was a tractor to be driven, Dale was there.
Dale continued his farming passion by working at neighboring farms, especially the Kugath farm. His farming passion cultivated his career at Mid-County Co-op as an agronomy applicator, helping the local farmers prepare their fields for planting. Later, Dale shifted his talents to the Mid-County fuel and LP Gas team.
Dale was a valued member of the Mid-County Co-op family. His contributions to the cooperative went beyond his role; he was a trusted colleague and a friend to many. His work ethic, kindness, and willingness to lend a hand made him an integral part of the Mid-County community.
For 37 years, Dale served as a beacon of strength and bravery as a volunteer firefighter in Cologne. Whether battling flames, aiding during emergencies, or offering comfort to those in distress, Dale’s commitment to his community was unwavering. His dedication and sacrifice will forever be remembered as an integral part of Cologne’s safety and security.
When Dale was not working, he enjoyed time with family and friends. He loved going on family vacations, spending time with his nieces, nephew and great niece and nephews and helping care for his elderly parents. Dale had many friends. He enjoyed time spent at the local pub where he spent a dollar or two on Pull Tabs.
Dale is preceded in death by his grandparents, Martin and Eleanore Schmitz, Arnold and Evelyn Notermann.
Dale is survived by his parents, Roger and JoAnn Schmitz; sister Nancy (Vern) Elke; brother Tom Schmitz; nieces and nephew Mackenzie (Shane) Lobitz, Kelsey Bakeberg (fiance James Winterhalter), Mason Storms; great niece and nephews Elena Bakeberg, Brooks Lobitz, Carson Lobitz, Cullen Bakeberg.
Urn Bearers are Mason Storms, Mackenzie Lobitz, Kelsey Bakeberg.
