Dale Peterson Obituary

Dale B Peterson, 92, passed away on Sunday, January 4, 2026 in Rochester, MN. A memorial service will be held at 2pm on Thursday, January 15, 2026 at the Bayview Freeborn Funeral Home in Albert Lea, MN. A visitation will be held an hour prior to the service. Rev. Joshua Skogen will be officiating.

Dale was born October 20, 1933 to Mark and Gena Peterson in Clarks Grove-Ellendale, MN. Dale met Joyce Moehnke while working in LeRoy. They married on May 17, 1957 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin. Fans of country western music, Joyce and Dale loved to go dancing. Together they raised two children, and lived on his parents farm for more than 20 years.

Following a short stint at Wilson and Co. after graduating from Ellendale High School, Dale began his 37 year career at the Minnesota Highway Department (now MnDOT). He was very proud of helping establish the interstate system throughout southern Minnesota, particularly the bridges. Dale worked his way to lead inspector, retiring at age 57.

Sharp with numbers and a jack of all trades, Dale enjoyed following the stock market, current events, staying busy tinkering with projects, and visiting with loved ones. You could often find him watching Gunsmoke, his favorite TV show. He and Joyce have been members of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church (ELS) for more than 60 years.

Dale is survived by his loving wife of 68 years Joyce Peterson of Albert Lea, sisters Judy Gallagher and Susan Kelly, daughter Lisa Peterson of Missouri, grandson Ethan (Bethany) Peterson of Eagan, granddaughter Emily (Nick) Golbuff of Albert Lea, and five great grandchildren.

Dale is preceded in death by his parents Mark and Gena Peterson, son Randy Peterson, sister Delores Karsjens, brother Riley Peterson, and brothers in law Jeff Mehnke, Jim Gallagher, and Dan Kelly.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests your consideration of a donation to the American Cancer Society or a charity of your choice on Dale’s behalf.