Dale Ralph Williams

Dale Ralph Williams, age 83, of Lake Crystal and formerly of Madelia, died September 8, 2023, at Ecumen Pathstone Living in Mankato.

An open house Celebration of Life will be held from 1-4 p.m., Saturday, September 16, 2023 at Cornerstone United Methodist Church, 980 S Main St, in Lake Crystal. In Lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the donor’s choice.

Arrangements are with the Sturm Funeral Home, Pilgrim Chapel.  Online condolences may be left for the family at www.sturmfh.com.

Dale was born March 28, 1940 to Roger and Mabel (Johnson) Williams in Sioux City, Iowa. He graduated from Windom High School in 1958. On June 17, 1959, Dale married Shari O’Neil at Amo United Methodist Church near Storden, Minnesota. Together, they raised four children. In 1961, he received his bachelor’s degree from Mankato State University.

Dale began his working career teaching math and science  in Westbrook, Minnesota. After moving his family to Madelia in 1964 he worked several years at the Citizens National Bank in Madelia and then managed Madelia-Lake Crystal Mutual Insurance Company. Dale also owned and operated his own insurance agency and sold real estate.

Dale loved his community. He served as the mayor of Madelia for 12 years, and was a part of numerous clubs and service groups, including, the Madelia Rescue Squad, Madelia Action Corp., Rotary Club, Masonic Lodge, and several insurance boards and associations. He was also a member of the Madelia United Methodist Church, where he served on several church boards and committees.

In his free time, Dale enjoyed taking care of his hobby farm where he raised hogs, sheep, and horses.

Family was important to Dale and he will be greatly missed by his loving family; including, his wife, Shari; children, Brad (Rich Giambrone) Williams, Wendy (Steve) Hennager, and Jodi (Bob) Weston; grandchildren, Eric (Jen), Tony (Kelly), Mara (Taylor), Derek (Shelly), Bryan (Alyssa), Emily, and Jake; great grandchildren, Tygen, Kenna, Wylla, Liv, and Brooks; brother, Jack Williams; brother-in-law, David (Elaine) O’Neil; and nieces, nephews, and many friends.

Dale was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Lori Williams; grandson, Andy; brother, Keith (Betty); sister-in-law, Cleone; and nephew, Kevin.