Dale John Thiele 93, of Delano, MN passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on February 20, 2026.

Dale was born in Graceville, MN, and grew up in Minneapolis. He was drafted into the United States Army and served during the Korean War. Dale met the love of his life, wife Ann, whenthey worked together at Honeywell in the Ford Center. Ann and Dale shared 67 and a half years together in marriage.

Together they built their family and eventually moved to Delano so their children could experience country life and grow up on a hobby farm. Dale especially enjoyed fishing, spending time with his family, and puttering on projects around the house. A skilled and hardworking man, he personally built two of his family’s homes in Minnetonka and Delano. Dale’s greatest pride and joy was his family.

Dale was known for his humor and gentle nature. He had an easy way of making people laugh and putting others at ease, and he was a favorite among everyone who met him.

Most of all, Dale was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He cherished time spent with those he loved.

The world lost one of the good ones. Dale, dad, grandpa will be deeply missed and his memory will always bring a smile to the faces of those lucky enough to have known him.

Dale is survived by his wife, Ann; daughters, Karen (Doug), Susan (Scott), Nancy, and Jeannine (Jay); grandchildren, David (Kristin), Marie (Brett), Cory, Devin (Emily), and Jacqueline (Wesley); and great-grandchildren, Arianna, Carter, Wyatt, Emerson, and Mason; and a large extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Anna; and his siblings, Paul, Lavella, Roger, and Marianne.

A funeral service was held at 11 AM on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at the Iten Funeral Home in Delano, Minnesota. A visitation was held prior from 10-11 AM. A luncheon immediately followed the service. Interment with military honors in Fort Snelling National Cemetery on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at 1:30 PM. Assembly Area #3.