Dale Junior Peterson

Dale Junior Peterson, age 68 of Alma, WI passed away at his home with his wife and children by his side on October 9, 2023. Dale faught a short but courageous battle with melanoma liver cancer. He was born on October 31, 1954 to Dale and Carol (Marty) Peterson in Wabasha, MN.  Dale married Vicky Lynn Koesterman on Novemer 15, 1980 at Zion Lutheran Church in Mondovi, WI.  Dale was a dedicated and loyal employee of La Crosse Milling Company for over 49 year.  Dale lived a life filled with hard work, love, and cherished memories. He was known not only as the greatest man his wife Vicky and his children Nathan and Nicole ever knew but also a very proud brother, father, and grandfather.

Throughout his career at La Crosse Milling Company, Dale worked in several areas of the mill, showcasing his commitment and expertise. For more than two decades, he served as the maintenance manager, contributing to the success and growth of the company. In addition to his dedicated work ethic, Dale passionately served on the Herald Cemetery Association Board for many years.

Dale's love for his family was immeasurable. He created endless memories with his beloved wife Vicky, children, and grandchildren. They enjoyed camping trips where he shared his wisdom and mentored them. Whether it was snowmobiling in winter or tinkering in the workshop, Dale's playful spirit shone through as they had fun with go-karts and 4-wheelers or engaged in playful roughhousing. Dale journeyed to garage sales and flea markets with Vicky, car shows and swap meets with Nate and Lucas, ventured on motorcycle rides with Nicky, and cherished braiding Riley’s hair at any opportunity.

His hobbies were varied and brought immense joy to his life. One of his passions was creating and operating his "Black Knight" modified pulling tractor for several years. Dale also found fulfillment in helping out on the family farm throughout his entire life—a testament to his strong bond with nature and hard work.

Another cherished pastime was embarking on adventurous rides with Vicky on their Honda Trike over the past decade. Together, they explored new roads and turns without ever getting lost—a symbol of their unwavering companionship.

Dale leaves behind a loving and supportive family who will forever cherish his memory. He is survived by his wife Vicky, daughter Nicole (Theresa Wytaske) Peterson of Mazeppa, MN, son Nathan (Miranda) Peterson of St. Charles, MN, and their children Lucas and Riley Peterson. Additionally, he is survived by step-grandchildren Alyssa and Asher Heise. Dale's surviving family also includes his beloved grand dogs Tonka (Mr. Magoo) and Ace (Ace the Mace).

He is preceded in death by his parents, first son Everett John, brother-in-law Tom Groven, father-in-law Charles Koesterman, mother-in-law Lois Rivers, step-mother-in-law Ruth LaPorte, and grand dogs Daisy Mae (Pork Chop) and Oakley (T-bone).

In his extended family circle, Dale is remembered with love by his step-mother-in-law Sharon Koesterman of Chippewa Falls, WI; sister Connie (Dan) Maroushek of Hutchinson Island, FL; brothers Rodney (Lory) of Goodview, MN; Craig and Mike (Chris Torgerson) of Alma, WI; brother-in-law Dan (Kim) Koesterman of Wisconsin Dells, WI; sister-in-law Tammy Groven of Trempealeau, WI; and Cindy (Rick) Brown of Altoona, WI. He will also be missed by his many nieces and nephews.

Dale Junior Peterson's legacy will be etched in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to have known him. His dedication to his work, love for his family, and joyful spirit will continue to inspire and guide us. May his soul find eternal peace as he takes his final rest in Herold Cemetery, surrounded by the beauty of the Wisconsin countryside that he loved so dearly.

A memorial gathering will be held at Talbot Family Funeral Homes in Alma, WI on Saturday October 14 at 9:00 AM until the hour of the service at 12:00PM. Burial will follow at Herold Cemetery in rural Alma.

Talbot Family Funeral Homes - Scenic Rivers Cremation Center assisted the family with arrangements.  www.talbotfuneralhomes.com

The family asks, in lieu of flowers, please send memorial donations to:  St. Croix Hospice, Attn:  Compliance Department

7755 3rd Street N - Suite 200 - Oakdale, MN 55128