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Obituary

William “Dale” Cornforth

February 13, 2022 | 12 comments

William “Dale” Cornforth age 81 died peacefully at the Gundersen Health System on Sunday, February 6, 2022, with his wife by his side.

Born to Bill and Delores Cornforth in Spring Grove, MN, he was raised on a farm in Crystal Valley. He graduated from Houston High School and married his high school sweetheart, Deanna Gaustad.  Together they raised three children in the La Crescent, MN area.

He worked as a route man for Continental Baking for over 40 years and was affectionately called “Buns” or “Daily Bread” by his many customers. After retiring, he enjoyed going for rides in his black F-150 Ford Lariat crew cab pickup, mowing his lawn with his John Deere riding lawnmower, meeting for coffee with the boys at Marge’s, monthly breakfasts with the Wonder Bread crew, attending his grandchildren’s events, and family get-togethers where his favorite dessert, homemade ice cream, was usually made just for him. Like several other members of his family, he had a great singing voice and was always on key.  Dale also enjoyed a variety of activities including playing golf, pool, reading, following the stock market, and a roaring game of Euchre.

Dale is survived by his wife of 63 years, Deanna and his children:  David Cornforth and Darcey (Lyle) Lemke; daughter-in-law, Holly Cornforth; and “Grandpa Boo Boo” to his grandchildren: Sarah (Jonathan) Powell and Samuel Cornforth.

He is also survived by his mother, Delores, and siblings:   Wayne, Gary, Sophie, Charlene, and Janelle; sisters-in-law:  Donna (Duane) Oldenburg and Evelyn Cornforth; along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is preceded in death by his father, father-in-law Odin Gaustad, mother-in-law Dorothy Gaustad, brother Ray, sister-in-law Diane Cornforth, and son Douglas.

The family would like to extend their thanks to the staff at Gundersen Health System for their loving care with special appreciation to Dr. Brian Mulrennen and Dr. Duane Undelund.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, February 25, 2022 at The Gathering Place, 133 Mason St. Onalaska, with visitation from 10:00 am until the time of the service.

We will hold you in our hearts until we hold you in heaven.

Till we all meet again.

Condolences

12 Comments

  1. Barbara Gates

    Will miss his smiling face at marges

  2. Kathryn R Hove

    Deanna, I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Your old Maid Rite buddy, Kathy Hove

  3. Ardith

    Deanna, Darcey, David, Donna and families, I’m sorry to hear of Dale’s passing. Thinking of all of you and extending sincere sympathy.
    Ardith

  4. ReNel Hibbard

    Dee and Family…so sorry for your loss of Dale. Our deepest condolences.

  5. Evelyn

    So sorry, Deanna and family. I’ll never forget the afternoons sitting around Ma’s living room and Dale’s big smile.

    • Laurie Smith

      I am so very sorry for your loss. I was one of Dale’s customers at Quillin’s & also worked with your son & Holly. He was so kind & always had a smile for you. I will always remember him with fondness. May God be with you during this difficult time. ?❤️

  6. Jane

    Sympathy to the family. So sorry for your loss.

  7. Becky Bieze

    David, so sorry for your loss, we keep you and your family in our prayers.

  8. Monica Kehlen

    HI Sweet Dee, It’s Monica from UM, sending you oodles of love and a heart filled with empathy. A lifetime of fond memories can’t bring back your dearest life partner and son, but I hope you find comfort in knowing how much you are loved and supported.

  9. Dave & Phyllis Beckman

    So sorry for your loss. I’m glad Phyllis and I had a chance to share dinner with Dale and Deanna at the Harvest Home Festival at the South Ridge United Methodist Church last October. Dale’s sense of humor and his laughter were always captivating.

  10. Michael W Peterson

    My sincere sympathy to all of Dale’s family and Friends. Dale used to deliver bread when I worked in the grocery business several decades ago. He always had a HUGE smile on his face and was always in a good mood. He was a joy to be around, always upbeat, friendly and helpful. He will be missed. Rest in Peace Dale.

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