Dale Francis Spafford

Dale Francis Spafford led a fulfilling and meaningful life; leaving a positive impact on his family, his community and all those around him.  From his birth in Mankato, MN, through his many endeavors in education, construction and with his family and friends, Dale’s life is a testament to his love for life and the people in it.  Here is a summary of his life story:

Dale Francis Spafford was born on September 7, 1940 in Mankato, MN.  He was baptized and confirmed at St. John’s Lutheran Church.  Dale graduated from Wheaton High School in 1958, marking an important milestone in his early education. 

On October 29, 1960, Dale married DeAnn Rittenour, beginning a beautiful journey of companionship and partnership.  Dale and DeAnn initially established their home in Moorhead, MN while Dale pursued his college education at Moorhead State College.  Subsequently, they moved to Warroad, MN, where Dale worked as a Biology and Mathematics teacher at the local high school.  Later, the couple settled in Webster, WI, where they raised their three sons: Alan, John, and Scott; supporting them though their high school years.

In 1976, Dale embarked on a new adventure by cofounding Dale Spafford Construction alongside his close friend, Fred Peters.  This endeavor brought numerous rewards, including a significant achievement when he secured the bid for the construction of the Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Webster, WI.  Dale’s dedication to his spiritual community was evident not only in his management of the church’s construction, but also in his active participation in the church’s weekly services which fostering a meaningful sense of community among his family and friends. 

Beyond his professional pursuits, Dale enjoyed the Wisconsin outdoors; passing down his love for fishing and hunting to his sons.   He spent time teaching his boys, and later, his grandchildren, about fishing different types of fish in certain lakes and rivers reserved for specific species.  The fall season brought hunting for grouse, ducks and geese around Tom and Ann Lake and the cherished deer hunting tradition in Wisconsin.

Dale’s commitment to community extended to serving on the Webster School Board and supporting student athletes, teachers, and coaches through the Owl-Bus initiative.

Later in life, Dale and DeAnn returned to Wheaton to care for Dale’s parents, Oscar and Beatrice, exemplifying their dedication to family. Dale passed away Tuesday, August 1, 2023 at Sanford Wheaton Hospital in Wheaton.

Dale is survived by his wife DeAnn, his three sons: Alan (Traci), John, Scott (Jennifer), four grandchildren: Alexis Stinson (David), Sydnee, Katelyn, and Luke, many nieces and nephews, and his three siblings: Joe (Jean), Paul (Su) and Sandy Smith (Tar).

Dale’s impact as a loving father, grandfather, uncle, and friend is a true testament to the remarkable man that he was.  The memories of Dale’s love, dedication and contributions to his community will undoubtedly endure in the hearts of all those who had the privilege of knowing him. 

Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, August 8, 2023 at 10:30 a.m. at St. John Lutheran Church in Wheaton with Rev. Dan Gifford officiating. Organist will be Sara Lee Rinke. Honorary urn bearers will be Joe Spafford, Paul Spafford, Ron McCullar, Ole Larson, Lyle LeCuyer and Dick Schultz. Visitation will be held one hour prior to service time at the church.

A private family burial will take place at a later date.

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