“Coach” Dale Race, age 78, passed away on April 25, 2025, surrounded by his loving family and finally at peace after a long battle with prostate cancer. Coach was a devoted and loyal husband, father, son, brother and friend.
Coach’s 40-year-plus basketball career included stints at Milton College, the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire, the University of Minnesota – Duluth and the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay. In 14 years as the Head Coach at UMD, Coach earned conference Coach of the Year honors eight times and guided the Bulldogs to eight NAIA National Tournament appearances.
Though many may remember Coach for his career in athletics, those that were blessed to know him personally know that his athletic accomplishments were just one part of a long and beautiful life of love and service. Coach was a dedicated and supportive husband and father above all else. Coach’s family expanded over the years to include all of his players, and Coach’s devotion to them did not end with their college careers. Coach continued to be a friend and mentor to those hundreds of men until his dying day; his devotion and love was returned tenfold.
Summing up such an extraordinary life in an obituary is impossible. The impact Coach had on so many over the years could never be measured. That impact will only continue to grow as those he knew and loved will follow in his footsteps, live his lessons, and pass his wisdom on and on and on…
Coach is survived by his wife Margaret, his daughters Jennifer (Wally) and Kari (Nick), his brother Paul (Karen), Margaret’s sisters and brother, loyal friend Gary Holquist and many other loving family members, whether they were related by blood or Coach had simply taken them into his heart.
Arrangements, and an online obituary, by Berth & Rosenthal Funeral Home in Peshtigo, WI. Coach’s family is planning a celebration of life that will take place later in the year.
