Dale N. Pearson

Dale Norm Pearson, age 85, passed away on January 21, 2026, at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.

Dale was born on November 7, 1940, in Winona, Minnesota, during the historic Armistice Day Blizzard, to Lilah (Stephen) Pearson and Arthur Pearson. He grew up in Minnesota City and graduated from Winona Senior High School in 1959, where he met the love of his life, Patricia Ebert, who he lovingly called, "Patty Ann."

Dale and Patricia were married on August 19, 1961, and shared more than 64 years of marriage. Together, they raised four children: Jeff Pearson; Wendy (the late Richard) Sandell; Tracy (Jeffrey) Madden; and Holly (Richard) Walters. As Dad’s time on this earth drew to a close, the simple act of holding Mom's hand brought him great peace and comfort.

Dale was a proud grandfather to eight grandchildren: Kaylynn (Steve) Maas, Matthew (Ashley) Pearson, Joshua Pearson (preceded him in death), Katherine Madden, Kevin Madden, Kelly Madden, William Walters, and Sophia Walters; and two great-grandchildren, Annabel and Haley Young.

Dale began working at Peerless Chain at the age of 18 and retired after more than 40 years of dedicated service. He was a hardworking and devoted employee and a proud member of the local International Association of Machinists.

In addition to working at Peerless Chain, Dale also served as a volunteer fireman for the Pickwick Volunteer Fire Department.

He was also a member of the Drag-Ons Car Club. Throughout his life, Dale enjoyed watching many forms of racing, including NASCAR, dirt track racing in Fountain City, and drag racing in New Brighton. He especially cherished the opportunities to watch his son-in-law compete in drag racing.

A man of strong faith, Dale was an active member of First Lutheran Church in Minnesota City before transferring to St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church in Winona. He served both congregations faithfully on church council and as an usher on numerous occasions.

While his family will deeply miss his presence—along with his sense of humor and famous one-liners—they rejoice in the promise of heaven, knowing Dale has been welcomed into the arms of his Lord and Savior, reunited with family and friends.

Dale was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, a son-in-law, and a grandson.

He is survived by his devoted wife of over 64 years, Patricia; their four children; seven grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; his sister Joyce (Butch) Sielke; and a large extended family and many dear friends.

Dad, thank you for your patience as you watched us grow into independent adults rooted in faith, family, and love of country. You taught us that if the sun was up, there was work to be done; that dinner was served at dark; and that you didn’t come inside before then. Your legendary work ethic lives on through your children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

We will forever gather and share stories of cutting and stacking wood, baling hay, farm chores, bonfires fueled with applewood, Sunday church, and a life centered on family and God.

To our Father in heaven, thank you for the 85 years we were blessed to share with Dad. He led his family and friends by example, with fairness, humility, and gentle strength.

Until we meet again—love you always.

Visitation will be held at the Watkowski-Mulyck Funeral Home, 376 E. Sarnia St., Winona, on Friday, January 30, 2026, from 10:30 AM until the funeral service at noon. The Reverends Winfried Schroeder and Oliver Lindholm will officiate. Dale will be laid to rest at the Oakland Cemetery in Minnesota City.

Online condolences or memories may be left for Dale’s family at www.watkowski-mulyck.com.