Dale Fredrick Kalpin

Dale Fredrick Kalpin was born on June 21, 1937, in Parkers Prairie, Minnesota the son of John and Lorna (Brockopp) Kalpin.  He was baptized (July 18, 1937) and confirmed (May 20, 1951) at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Parkers Prairie. 

In October of 1961 Dale was united in marriage to Donna Rediehs in Carlos, Minnesota.  After their marriage the couple farmed in Parkers Prairie and Dale also drove milk truck.  In 1976 he started his shoe repair business in Alexandria that later became Kalpin’s Boots & Saddles.  In September of 1987 Dale started driving school bus – a job he loved for the next 36 years.  He truly cared for the kids on his bus and they for him – a relationship that lasted throughout their lives. 

Dale had a love for horses and through his business would support the local Saddle Club.  He was also on the Alexandria City Council from 1992-2006, and a volunteer at the Alexandria Food Shelf.  One of Dale’s greatest accomplishments was receiving his GED at the age of 60 – this inspired many others to do the same.

Dale died on Saturday, September 9, 2023.  He is survived by his wife, Donna; daughters: Pamela (James) Lippert, June (Rick) Nelson, Penny (David) Messner; 8 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren; sisters: Lois (Donald) Sjobeck, Karen Meidl.

He was preceded in death by his parents, grandchild, baby Messner, great granddaughter, Harlow Elizabeth Nelson, sister, Bonita Swanson.

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 15, 2023, 4:00 – 7:00 PM at the Anderson Funeral Home.   Visitation will continue on Saturday, September 16, 2023, 10:00 – 11:00 AM at Zion Lutheran Church with a Memorial Service at 11:00 AM.  Burial will be at Kinkead Cemetery.