Dale Frank Cutler

Dale Frank Cutler passed away at home on Monday, November 13, 2023. Dale was born in Fond du Lac on August 28, 1926, son of Frank and Lenora (Dreifuerst) Cutler. He graduated from Fond du Lac High School and enlisted in the US Navy in January, 1944. While stationed at Fort Pierce, Florida, Dale volunteered for the Navy’s first special warfare commandos the “Scouts and Raiders”. After completing his training, he was assigned to the USS Roper which was hit by a kamikaze during the battle for Okinawa.

Dale was discharged from the Navy in Chicago, Illinois after the war. There he met Shirlee, they married and had the joy of 60 years of marriage. Dale spent most of his work life on the railroad. He was a brakeman and conductor for the Chicago NorthWestern Railroad and then after a break of several years, he joined the Soo Line. After retiring from the Soo Line, Dale and Shirlee spent time together attending Chicago Cubs games, visiting with their grandchildren, going to casinos and traveling. Shirlee passed away in 2007.

Dale would say he was a very lucky man when talking about the last years of his life. He met Mary Theisen and cherished the time they spent together. He was treated as one of the family by the Theisen extended family and enjoyed the time they shared with him.

Survivors include his daughter Carol (Danny) Utterback of DeWitt, MO, and his son Robert (Debbie) of Menomonee Falls. In addition, he is survived by 8 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren, plus a niece, nephews and friends. Dale was preceded in death by his wife Shirlee, his daughter Susan, his son John, his brother Charles, sister Shirley Gallert and special companion Mary Theisen.

The family would like the thank Dale’s neighbors for their assistance and friendship to him over the last years and the team at SSM Home Hospice, especially Sandy, Jessica and Heather.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Dale’s name can be made to the Fond du Lac Humane Society or the SSM Home of Hope.

At Dale’s request cremation has taken place and a private memorial service with military honors will be held.

Twohig Funeral Home is serving the family with online guestbook and condolences at www.twohigfunerals.com.