Dale Esther (Stein) Krake, age 90, of Crandon, Wisconsin, formerly of New London, Wisconsin, went peacefully to her heavenly home on January 7, 2026.
Dale was born on November 15, 1935, in Plattsburgh, New York. She later resettled in Wisconsin, where she built a life rooted in faith, family, and love. On August 27, 1955, Dale married the love of her life, Norbert Krake, at Emanuel Lutheran Church in New London, Wisconsin. Their marriage was a true partnership, with many shared adventures until Norbert’s passing in 1999.
Dale was kind, loving, and deeply devoted to God and her family. She was known for her cute little chuckle, quick wit, and the unmistakable twinkle in her eye. Smart, quirky, and fun to be around, Dale brought warmth and joy wherever she went.
A talented artist, Dale painted many portrait-style works in her younger years and generously shared her gift by giving art lessons. While raising her children, she also worked for a time at Cos Co and Ben Franklin. She was a proud member of the Red Hatters and especially enjoyed participating in Frontier Rendezvous alongside her late husband, creating treasured memories together.
Dale’s unwavering faith was central to her life. A devout Christian, she read her Bible often, attended church regularly, and never missed an opportunity to minister to others.
Dale is survived by her son, Norbert Krake Jr.; sisters Florence (Fred) Eiffler, Jeannette (James) Dailey, Dawn Schmidt, and Joan (Curtis) Schmidt; brother Orin Stein Jr.; and sister- and brother-in-law Carol (Krake) and Wirt Holm.
She is also lovingly remembered by her grandchildren: Bailey Harmelink, Bob Gurholt, Rusty Gurholt, Ryan Gurholt, Scott Krake, Angie (Krake) Rietvelt, Heidi Krake, and Rachel Krake, along with many great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Norbert Krake Sr.; her daughter, Debra (Krake) Harmelink; her brother, Charles Wiegand; and her sister, Jan Gurholt.
At Dale’s request, no memorial service will be held at this time. A small family service will take place in the spring or early summer in New London, Wisconsin.
Dale’s life was a quiet testimony of faith, love, creativity, and grace. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.
Weber-Hill & Packard Funeral Home of Crandon is assisting the family with arrangements.
