Dale P. Emmer

Dale Paul Emmer, 75, travelled to the drag racing track in the sky on Saturday, December 13, 2025, after a short journey with cancer, facing his illness with incredible strength and grace. Dale was born on November 3, 1950, to Darwin and Delores (Resop) Emmer. He attended Fond du Lac schools, graduating in 1969 from Goodrich High School, Fond du Lac. He married Barbara (Mayer) on July 21, 1973. They resided in the town of Malone, WI for most of their marriage and celebrated 52 years of marriage in 2025. Dale spent most of his working years at Tecumseh Products (37.5 years), Metal Link Corporation, and Mercury Marine. Dale is survived by his wife, Barbara; son Clayt (Janal) Emmer and daughter Nichole Huss; grandsons Cameron & Braeden Emmer; granddaughter Hailee Huss; special family friends Treanna Murre and Kaylen Dommise; brother James (Ruth) Emmer; sisters-in-law Sheila Emmer, Kathy Mayer, Julie Mango, and Lucy Rekhlaw; brother-in-law Mark Ditter; goddaughter Lisa Wodack; numerous nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews; and many special friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Darwin and Delores Emmer; parents in law Raymond and Marie (Thome) Mayer; brother Gary Emmer; sister Sue Ditter; in-laws Bernice and Rafael Gonzalez, Melvin and Mary Mayer, Robert Mayer, Cyril Mayer; niece Brenda Mayer; nephews Johnny Mayer and Kenny Smith. Dale had a passion for drag racing that was evident in every facet of his life. He took great pleasure in teaching his wife and children to race, and later his grandchildren. Together they achieved more than 7 championships. He never turned down a chance to talk to others about cars, especially his 1964 Rambler. He loved to chat with his kids and grandkids after each round about what went wrong or right and always offered a hug or high five after a win. He was quick to admit a mistake and credited most of his wins to luck. On any given weekend, he could be found racing or working on a car, whether in his shop or helping others with their cars. He was known to many and made friends easily, living a life of truth and kindness. He enjoyed talking about any subject and didn’t let a difference of opinion cloud a friendship. Dale also enjoyed watching sports, including the Green Bay Packers and Milwaukee Brewers. He especially enjoyed attending his grandkids’ events. Dale took care of everyone. He loved life. He loved people. He loved to talk. And he loved to be present in every moment. Have a Pabst for him, then listen closely. As the wind moves through the race pits and the cars rev and stage, then cut a light, you’ll hear his jokes and ribald rendition of “Big Ass Lil and Yukon Pete.” If you look closely, you might even see him moon the race winner. He’ll be sitting by a cozy fire in the race pits, celebrating as your lives carry on, and patiently waiting for you to join him. A special thank you to everyone who surrounded Dale and his family in support during these past months, as well as his medical and hospice care teams. Tomorrow is not guaranteed, so make the most of today. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Dale P. Emmer

November 3, 1950 - December 13, 2025