William Dale Klein, age 87 of Tracy, passed away Tuesday, May 7, 2019 at Sanford Hospital in Sioux Falls. A Celebration of Life was held from 4:00-7:00 p.m. Saturday, May 11 at Tracy Area Funeral Home. Graveside service was held on 1:00 p.m. Sunday, May 12 at the Tracy City Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorials preferred to the Tracy Hospice House. Online condolences may be sent at www.stephensfuneralservice.com. Stephens Funeral Service – Tracy Area Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
William Dale Klein was born January 14, 1932 to David and Florence (Briaid) Klein in Tracy, Minnesota. He attended District 35 and graduated from Tracy High School. Dale was called to active duty with the local National Guard Unit and served during the Korean Conflict. He worked briefly for Rignell Hardware and then started his career as a Unit Administrator for the Minnesota Army National Guard. Dale then retired and was transferred to active call with the Army Reserve until 1992. He was also self-employed during that time.
On July 9, 1951, Dale married Edith Anderson and from this marriage four children were born, Deb, Kathryn, Dale, and Ted. Dale then married Nancy Mielke on December 3, 1986. He was active in community affairs and was commander of the Tracy American Legion. Dale was president of the Tracy Eagles Club and the Tracy Lutheran Church and was the Sunday School superintendent for many years. He enjoyed doing stats for the school and radio comments for over 20 years. Dale also took pride in being the commander of the firing squad for 25 years and served as long as he could. He enjoyed reading, watching sports and going fishing in the summer and winter. Dale loved to spoil his grandchildren.
William is survived by his wife Nancy of 33 years; children: Debra (Dwayne) Helleson of Faribault, Kathryn of Shakopee, Dale of Paynesville, Ted (Leslie) of St. Bonifacius; step-daughter Christine (Mike) Schmitt of Milroy; step-son Royce of Alexandria; grandchildren: Chelsea, Ryan, Logan, Evan Klein, Jacob, Megan, John, and Nicholas Schmitt; brothers: Melvin Klein and Lyle (Mary) Ely; and many other family and friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents, sister Margaret, brothers David, Elmer, and Richard, brother-in-law Ed Peck, sister-in-law Betty Klein, and grandsons Justin and Dustin Klein.
We will always remember and love you.
Thank you for being a part of our lives and sharing your love.