Dale LeRoy Stauffacher

Dale LeRoy Stauffacher, age 79, of Waconia, Minnesota. Dale passed away peacefully in the early hours on March 11, 2026 in Waconia, Minnesota to be with the Lord. Dale was born on April 17, 1946 in Minneapolis to parents Donald and Majorie Stauffacher. He grew up Brooklyn Center, Minnesota. And after graduating from Osseo High School, he entered as a new recruit into the US Navy as a cook, diesel-man and walked the ice of Antarctica during the Vietnam War. He served the country for six years on Navy ice-breakers and battleships even in the Mediterranean Sea. Stationing and porting in places like Italy, Cyprus, Pompeii, and lastly, installing Palmer's Station in Antarctica - Dale served the Navy well. On his return home, in 1972, he married Rita Hildreth, raising three sons during their marriage in New Brighton, Minnesota: Jason, Micheal, and Lucas. Dale worked as a janitor at the Chemistry Building at the University of Minnesota, a metal foundry, Flame Industries in Chanhassen, Minnesota, and retired medically later in life living in Fridley, Minnesota with his dogs and cats. Dale was known for his attention to detail to family and friends over the years. He immensely enjoyed hosting meals especially near Christmas-time at Jax Cafe in NE Minneapolis, and serving in various minor roles at church throughout his life in Bible studies. One of the most evident descriptors about Dale was his faithful heart and unwavering commitment to his family, his many dogs he owned, a steadfast devotion and genuine love for Jesus by reciting Bible verses verbatim, especially the Roman Road. He was a devoted grandfather and doggy-dad. His legendary "I love you’s” by speaking kind words that were given often, just because, his family and friends where in front of him — Dale will be fondly remembered. He didn't care whom was around. He said he loved them. His kindness and dedication to his faith, and family—he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his three sons, Jason of Mound, Micheal of Vancouver, Lucas (Nina) of Champlin; he has five grandchildren, nieces and nephews; his brother Glen and his sister, Fern.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Majorie (whom he was very devoted to in his life).

A visitation will be held on the evening of Friday, March 27, 2026 from 6:00 pm- 8:00 pm at Sunset Kapala-Glodek Funeral Home, 2250 St. Anthony Blvd. NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418.

Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026 at 12:00 pm at Sunset Kapala-Glodek Funeral Home with a visitation beginning at 11:00 am.

Burial will be immediately following the funeral service at 1:15 pm

A luncheon will be provided following the burial at TST Ideal Hall, 1494 Dale Street N. St. Paul, MN 55117.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Dale’s memory to the African pangolin rescue at www.fauna-flora.org or the Koala Conservation - Australia at www.koalaconservationaustralia.org.au