Ralph "Dale" Cotter

Ralph Dale Cotter passed away peacefully on March 18, 2025 at the age of 95. Dale was born December 8, 1929 to Ralph U. and Myra C. (Knutson) Cotter in St. Paul, MN. He graduated from Murray High School (St. Paul) in 1947, from the University of Minnesota with a BA degree in Geology (split minor in Math and Physics) in 1951, and from the The University of Missouri School of Mines & Metallurgy with a Master of Science degree in Geology in 1953.

Dale married Geraldine (Gerry) Mattson in St. Paul in 1952. She accompanied him to Rolla, MO so Dale could finish his master’s degree. Following graduation in June, 1953, the couple returned to St. Paul where Dale was hired as a ground water hydrologist by the U.S. Geological Survey. Dale’s employment was interrupted in November, 1953 when he was drafted into the Army. Dale and Gerry moved to Seattle, Washington where Dale was stationed at Fort Lawton for two years during the Korean War. Following the completion of his military service, Dale and Gerry returned to the Twin Cities in December, 1955 and Dale resumed his work for the US Geological Survey. Dale worked for the USGS for his entire career (the last 20 years in Madison) until he retired in 1986. They moved to Oakwood Village in 2015.

Dale’s life shrunk considerably on August 26, 2023 when he lost Gerry, his wonderful wife of over 71 years. Dale is survived by his sister, Dr. Shirley C. Tucker of Santa Barbara. He is also survived by his children, who he taught by word and example: James (Marianne) Cotter, Sandy (Russ) Kohlstedt and Todd (Sue) Cotter. Dale got so much joy from his six grandchildren Stuart (Amanda Ward) Kohlstedt, Sam (Kimberly) Cotter, Allison (Mike) Rehm, Celia (Ryan) Schoening, Carl (Brianna) Cotter, and Natalie (Chris) Avallone. Dale leaves behind eight great-grandchildren: Amelia & Hannah Cotter, Julian & Zola Rehm, Ole & Ernest Cotter, Avery Schoening and Willa Kohlstedt.

Dale will be remembered as good friend, who was thoughtful and patient and open to new ideas. He was known for his integrity and reliability and consistency in his work. He left the world a better place by his actions, which included teaching Sunday School, finding hobbies that would interest his children and grandchildren, and serving as a leader and organizer in community groups.

Dale was a man of many interests. When he wasn’t working, Dale’s weekends were filled with numerous projects and hobbies. The family basement slowly filled with a workshop for woodworking projects; a potter’s wheel and kiln; a darkroom to print his vast collection of slides; a wall with shelves of aquariums full of tropical fish; and a model train layout. Later in life, Dale embraced home computers and painting. His legacy includes handmade furniture, toys and puzzles for the grandchildren (and now great – grandchildren), ceramic creations and both watercolor and acrylic paintings.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at BETHANY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, 3910 Mineral Point Rd, Madison, where Gerry and Dale were members for almost 60 years. A visitation will be held from 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. Memorials preferred to Bethany United Methodist Church or a charity of your choice.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3610 Speedway Road, Madison

(608) 238-3434