Dale H. Joeckel

Dale Herbert Joeckel was born September 28, 1954 in West Bend to Ruby and Virgil Joeckel. He grew up in Jackson where he was always following around his older brothers on the farm. Need for speed was developed early in life riding tractors, motorcycles, snowmobiles, and the infamous Barracuda. When asked if he was angry about having a sister after 10 years of being the baby he replied, “Never!” He always made her feel included and continued to reach out to her throughout life. He loved being a big brother.



Dale graduated from Washington High School ‘72 in Germantown. That same year he joined his father at Mercury Marine in Cedarburg September 28, 1972. During this time, he was managing the farm and working at Mercury. The amount of dedication and hard work this took developed a work ethic that he carried on to every aspect of his life. He retired September 28, 2018 from Mercury Marine in Fond du Lac and was always proud to be one of the original Cedarburg crew.



Dale was lucky to have met his soul-mate Jill, the yin to his yang. He created a life with her that never fell short of passion and support. He was the best dad anyone could ask for. Dale showed unconditional love to each of his children no matter the circumstances. He never gave up on his kids and did everything in his power to help them through all their individual struggles. Tackling issues without abandon and showed up even if that meant half awake at a recital or meeting (considering he spent many years working third shift). Family trips were important in the Joeckel house, and he made sure there were plenty. Whether it was chasing a bear to get a picture for his daughter in Yellowstone, finding snow crabs on the beach in the middle of the night in Alabama, or taking in shows in Branson he did everything he could to create memories. No flying for Dale, so a 28-hour car trip? No problem! The hours spent on the road are a whole other cherished memory. Gas station snacks and rolling out at 7:00 am to eat Cracker Barrel.



Dale spent a lot of time and miles on two wheels experiencing life and traveling on his motorcycle. Whether it was checking out some new curvy roads or taking a drive on a tried-and-true path, Dale was always down to take on the open road. He took many bike trips with family and friends and knew it was time to take a break when one of the kids would start clunking helmets with him. Every year he went down to Gulf Shores, AL, a gem his parents shared with him. Once retired he became an actual snowbird, and his family has nothing but fond memories of the place. He loved meeting new people and had a knack for finding where the locals hang on trips. He could carry on a conversation with anyone and his ability to remember names and personal details about people was unprecedented.



April 28, 2022 Dale passed away unexpectedly in Fond du Lac. His beloved wife Jill carries on in life as well as their children, Craig (Amy), Lance (Tarah), and Brittany (Claudia); grandchildren, Gabriella, Amya, and Zander; brothers, Jim and Randy (Linda); and his sister, Tammy (Guy).



Come celebrate Dale and share your stories with his friends and family May 14, 2022 from 2:00-5:00 pm at the Eagles Club in Fond du Lac. Dale would love to have new connections made in his memory. No need to wear black. Dress for a party, the last one Dale hosts.



Services are in the care of Uecker-Witt Funeral Home, 524 North Park Avenue, Fond du Lac, WI, 54935. Additional information and guestbook can be found at ueckerwitt.com