Dale Donald Hafner, 72, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, February 27, 2026 at his home in Cedar Grove.
Dale was born August 17, 1953 in Shawano, the son of Roger and Elaine (Gipp) Hafner. He graduated from Shawano High School in 1971 and went on to study at a local technical college. He moved to the Sheboygan area in the 1980’s, and worked at West Bend Company, Kohler Company and KMC Stamping. Most recently, he enjoyed working part time at Rathjen Greenhouse in his retirement.
An avid dog lover, Dale was a lifetime member of The Sheboygan Kennel Club, as well as a member of the Boston Terrier Club of Milwaukee, the Lakeshore Pigeon Club and the Combined Specialties of Greater Milwaukee.
He loved dog shows with his grand champion Westwind Westside Story, aka Tony, and the second family he made at them. He enjoyed cooking, baking, and gardening, especially his heirloom tomatoes). He cherished his Tuesday night bonfires with friends, and loved to entertain and connect with the people around him. He was known for his strong coffee, even stronger martinis, and always being there for those he cared about.
Dale is survived by his best friend and parter of 45 years, Tim Malueg; siblings: James Hafner, Lee (Wendy) Hafner, Tina (Jeff) Baker, Duane Hafner (Wendy Rosenburg), Tom Hafner (Theresa Hafner) and Holly (Randy) Schmidt; siblings-in-law Patty (Roger) Mulder, Tom Malueg (Lori O’Keefe), Ted Maleug (Dawn Kolberg), Priscilla (Greg) Winkel and Pam Bruggink; many nieces and nephews including Goddaughter Crystal Kristof; dear friend Trent Dreyfuss; his dog show family; other relatives and countless friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents, sister-in-law Deborah Hafner and niece Jessica.
A Celebration of Dale’s life will be held at Wenig Funeral Home, 108 Center Ave in Oostbur on Sunday, March 8, 2026 from 1:00-4:00PM with a Time of Sharing at 4:00PM.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested in Dale’s name.
Wenig Funeral Home – Oostburg (920-564-2771) is assisting the family with arrangements. Please visit wenigfh.com for online condolences.
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