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COURTLAND--Dale Michael Braun, age 68 of Courtland died unexpectedly in a motorcycle accident on Saturday, August 15, 2026, in Sauk County – Winfeld Township, Wisconsin.
Visitation will be held from 1-5 pm on Thursday, September 10, 2026, at the Minnesota Valley Funeral Home - South Chapel in New Ulm. A private family service will take place on Friday with burial following in the New Ulm City Cemetery. A celebration of life will take place starting at 1pm on Friday, September 11th at the Flying Dutchman Motorcycle Club in rural New Ulm. To leave an online condolence for his family, or to sign the guestbook, go to: mvfh.org
Dale is survived by his wife, Betty Braun of Courtland; his children, Joel Braun of New Ulm, Melanie (Nate Vorwerk) Braun of Colorado, Dustin Braun of New Ulm, Lindsae (Travis Meier) Braun of New Ulm, Amy (Nick Wornson) Braun of Duluth, Jessica (Pete) Brown of Cloquet, Ashley (Andrew Grant) Meyer of New Ulm; his grandchildren, Lana Braun, Maci Braun, Jonathan Meier, Max Vorwerk, Anthony Grant, Brandi Grant, Arlo Wornson; his sisters, Patty (Jeff) Larson of Rochester, Mary Ellen (Jim) Neumann of Arizona, Jeanie (Bruce) Lambrecht of Minnetonka; his brothers, Paul (Shari) Braun of Texas, Mark (Dena) Braun of Mankato; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and good friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his sister, Ann Hillesheim.
Dale Michael Braun was born June 5, 1958, in New Ulm to Victor and Eileen (Schumacher) Braun. Growing up in Sigel Township, Dale was a 1976 graduate of Cathedral High School. He was later united in marriage to Betty Gunneson on March 2, 1988, in New Ulm, where together the couple made their home and raised their family. Dale worked a long and dedicated 44 years at AMPI before his retirement in 2021.
Besides his work, there were a variety of hobbies Dale enjoyed in life. From his youth on, Dale had a passion for the open road and anything with a motor. He especially loved motorcycles and fast vehicles. He was an active lifetime member of the Flying Dutchmen Motorcycle Club and also belonged to the River Valley Dutchmen Snowmobile Club. It didn't matter if he was riding, restoring, or working on a motorcycle or vintage snowmobile, Dale loved every minute of it. He also enjoyed participating in area radar runs and sharing his passion for the open road, motorcycles, snowmobiles, and fast vehicles with others who enjoyed the same. Dale was a true jack-of-all-trades and loved spending time working with his hands in his garage. Whether he was working on cars, motorcycles, snowmobiles, or creating one of his many crafts, there was very little Dale couldn't figure out how to do. His garage was a place where he could put his skills and creativity to work, and many people knew Dale as the person they could turn to when something needed to be fixed, built, or figured out.
Those who knew Dale best would describe him as mellow, humble, and incredibly patient. He was never one to seek attention, but was always willing to lend a hand to someone in need. He had a quiet way about him that made people feel comfortable. The gentle giant that he was, Dale was also known for his big bear hugs, his love of toys, and also the special place in his heart for cats, especially his beloved Bootsie. Above all else, Dale treasured his family. He loved every moment he was able to spend with them and took great pride in watching his grandchildren grow. The time spent with family, the projects in his garage, the friendships he made through his many interests, and the simple moments of everyday life were all things that brought Dale happiness.
Dale's unexpected passing in a tragic motorcycle accident leaves a tremendous void for those who loved him. He will be remembered as a humble and patient man who was always willing to help others, a talented jack-of-all-trades who could seemingly fix or create just about anything, and a man who found great enjoyment in motorcycles, snowmobiles, fast vehicles, and working with his hands. Most importantly, he will be remembered for the love he had for his family and the joy he found in watching his grandchildren grow. The memories Dale created with his family and friends will remain a cherished part of their lives. Though his life was taken far too soon, the impact he made on those around him and the memories he leaves behind will not be forgotten. Blessed be his memory.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the donor's choice.
Mvfh.org