Dale R. Statz
HARSHAW–Former Black Earth and Cross Plains resident Dale Raymond Statz, 62, of rural Harshaw in Oneida County, passed away on Oct. 12, 2022, with his loving family by his side after a tenacious battle with cancer.
He was born on Sept. 10, 1960 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison to Edward John Statz and his wife Donna Ray (Hanson) Statz, who were married on July 23, 1955 in Cross Plains.
Dale was a 1979 graduate of Middleton High School where he was on the junior varsity and varsity basketball and football teams all during his high school years. He earned second team all-conference honors in football at UW-La Crosse. Dale continued to live and work in the Cross Plains and Madison area.
After meeting the love of his life, Pam Chitko, the couple bought and created their dream home in the Northwoods of Wisconsin. Their profound love for one another was second to none. Dale found the most joy spending time with Pam and their families and friends. Those who knew him could attest to his ever-present sense of humor. Dale always was a caregiver and put the needs of Pam and others before his own.
Dale was a great outdoorsman, and was always eager for the next kayak trip, a hike, or just relaxing and watching the birds and other wildlife around his home. He was always putting his handyman skills to use while listening to his pre-1990s music and was happily entertained by old silent movies.
In addition to Dale's fiancée, Pam, he is survived by his cherished son, Dylan Statz; his beloved mother, Donna Statz of Fort Myers, FL; his brothers, Gary (Nancy) Statz of Cross Plains, and John Statz of Madison; his sister, Robin Hurtado of San Diego, CA; his step-children: Chad, Keith, and Ashley (Dan); his grandchildren, Colton, Trey, Oliver, and Faith; his brother-in-law, Clint Cutsforth; his niece and nephews; as well as the Albin and Jean Chitko family of Laona; and many good friends including his hunting and card-playing buddies. John will be greatly missed.
He was preceded in death by his father, Edward Statz (Nov. 3, 2011); his older sister, Cheryl A. Statz Cutsforth (Dec. 10, 2021); and Pam’s older brother, John A. "Jack" Chitko (Nov. 14, 2016); and other family members.
The Hildebrand-Russ Funeral Home in Rhinelander assisted the family. A celebration of Dale's life will be held at a later date.
