Dale Gordon Flatland, 86, of Colfax, passed away on April 5, 2026. A man who was truly at home in the garage or under the open sky. Dale lived a life defined by hard work, a sharp mechanical mind, and a legendary sense of humor.

Born on June 28, 1939, Dale’s journey took him from the engine rooms of a Navy icebreaker to the farm fields and construction sites of Wisconsin. He served his country with pride as an engine mechanic in the United States Navy, a role that sparked a lifelong passion for understanding how things worked. Throughout his life Dale wore many different hats, but he was perhaps best known as the man who could fix anything and was happiest when he had grease on his hands and a tool in his reach. Dale was a natural jokester. He had a way of lifting the spirits of those around him, often pairing a difficult repair with a well-timed story or a bit of wit.

Dale is survived by his partner, Joan Close; his sons, Tim Dalhoe (Tammy) Paul Flatland (Lisa), Rocky Flatland (Patti), sisters; Colleen Steyer (Louis) and Patricia Englebretson (Ron). His legacy continues through his several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all of whom he took great pride in. He was preceded in death by his father, Gordon; his mother, Edna; his first wife, Carol; his second wife, Beverly; and his daughter, Tammy.

Funeral services will be held at 12pm Thursday, April 9, 2026 at Sampson Funeral Home, 1017 Railroad Ave, Colfax, WI., with Pastor Michael Sparby officiating. Visitation is one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will be at Our Saviors Lutheran Cemetery in the Township of Sand Creek with military honors performed by Russell-Toycen American Legion Post 131.

Sampson Funeral Home, Colfax is assisting the family. Online condolences may be shared at www.sampsonfuneralhome.com