Dale Norman Strom, age 83, of Spring Valley, Wis., passed away peacefully on Oct. 30, 2026, at Spring Valley Nursing and Rehab, surrounded by the love of his family.
Dale was born on March 14, 1943, to Carl and Helen (Brown) Strom in Spring Valley, Wis. He grew up in the community he would always call home and attended Spring Valley Schools. Throughout his working years, Dale dedicated 16 years to driving school bus for the School District of Spring Valley; that was something he truly enjoyed. However, he especially took pride in his work maintaining Gilman Township in rural Pierce County, where his hard work and dedication were appreciated by many.
Dale was an avid sports fan, especially when it came to his beloved Green Bay Packers and Milwaukee Brewers. He rarely missed a game and always enjoyed cheering on his favorite teams. Baseball, however, held an especially meaningful place in his heart. From the time he was a young boy, Dale had a passion for the game, developing an incredible knowledge and understanding of baseball. He even took to the field himself, proudly playing for the Spring Valley Hawks. His love for the game stayed with him throughout his life.
Outside of sports, Dale found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. He looked forward to gathering with his morning coffee crew, where good conversation, laughter, and familiar faces were always part of his day. He loved traveling out west on hunting trips with his son Tim and friends. Some of his fondest memories were of fishing on the Eau Galle with his wife Kay. The two spent so much time together along the water that the family often joked it was a wonder there were any fish left to catch. Dale and Kay also shared a love for hitting the open road in their truck/camper, exploring new places, taking in the sights and creating memories together along the way. He had a wonderful singing voice and a genuine love for music, although he was never one to share his talents publicly. And, of course, those who knew Dale will forever remember his trademark saying, “I’ll be go to Wilson” It was one of those familiar expressions that was simply Dale.
Above all else, Dale had a heart of gold. He was a kind, happy soul who cared deeply for the people in his life, especially his family. He had a way of making the ordinary moments meaningful, whether through a conversation over coffee, a day spent fishing or simply being together. His warmth, gentle nature, and love for those around him will remain among the most treasured memories of his family and friends.
Dale is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Kay; his children, Tim (Sandy) Strom, Becky (Mike Kemp) Strom, Jodi (Dennis) Olson, and Gary (Chrissy) Tuenge; his grandchildren, Kayla (Cory) Denzer, Rachel (Matt) Carlson, Alicia (Mike) Carlson, Cole (Ana) Buchanan, Cory (Mariah) Buchanan, Dylan Krauss, Austin (Cora) Krauss, Halle Langer, Haedyn Langer, Royce Baier, Carissa (Dylan) Johnson, and Trevor (Izzy) Tuenge; along with 10 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. He is further survived by many other relatives and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Helen Strom; his sister, Doris Johnson, Brother-in-Law Don Johnson; and his nephew, Steven Johnson.
Dale will forever be remembered for his kind heart, cheerful spirit, and the genuine happiness he brought to those around him. Though he will be deeply missed, his family and friends will carry his love, laughter, and countless memories with them always.
A Gathering of Friends and Family will be from 3-6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 6, 2026, at O’Connell - Keehr Funeral Home: S604 Plant St. Spring Valley, WI 54767. A time for sharing memories will be at 5:30 p.m.
In honor of Dale and his love for the Green Bay Packers and the World Series Champion Milwaukee Brewers, the family invites everyone to wear their favorite Packers or Brewers’ attire as they gather to celebrate his life.
Arrangements are entrusted to O’Connell Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Spring Valley. For more information or to share a memory, please visit www.oconnellfuneralhomes.com or call 715-778-5501.
