Reverend Dale Loren Phelps, 86, of Kasson, MN passed away on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, in Kasson, MN.
Dale was born on July 27, 1938, to Frederick and Dorothy (French) Phelps. He was born in his paternal Grandparents home, William and Katherine Phelps, northwest of Dodge Center, MN. He had the privilege of growing up in a Godly home. His parents and their family, which included his brother Darrell and sister, Connie, attended First Baptist Church in West Concord. They attended Sunday morning, Sunday evening, and Wednesday prayer meeting. When Dale was ten in February of 1948, his parents took the family to an evangelistic crusade in Rochester where Dale went forward during the invitation and invited Jesus Christ to be his Savior.
Dale enjoyed growing up on the farm, being involved in haying and harvesting. His parents encouraged their family to be involved in church activities. He enjoyed Vacation Bible Schools, the youth activities, especially under the leadership of Pastor Marvin and Helene Kannengieter, who had a major influence on his life, and also the music ministries. In the summer of 1954, at Bible Camp he dedicated his life to full time ministry. Upon graduating from Dodge Center High School in June of 1956, he attended Northwestern College in Minneapolis for one year and then attended Pillsbury Baptist College in Owatonna, where he graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree on June 3, 1960. On June 7, 1960, he married the love of his life, Karen Renner, the daughter of Al and VaLeeta Renner of West Concord, MN. Dale and Karen moved that summer to Winona Lake, Indiana, where he attended Grace Theological Seminary. His dear wife worked to put him through Seminary. He graduated from Grace Seminary in May of 1962, with a Master’s Degree in Christian Education. Following that, as a couple, they enjoyed serving their Lord and Savior for 53 years. The first 13 years as Youth, Music, and Christian Ed Pastor. Then for 40 years as Senior Pastor. His dear wife served as his church secretary for over 30 years. They thoroughly enjoyed serving their wonderful Lord together.
“If you could see me now, you wouldn’t shed a tear. Though you may not understand why I’m no longer here. Remember my spirit; that’s the real me. I’m still very much alive, oh, if you could only see! I’ve beheld my father’s face. I’ve touched my Savior’s hand. The angels all rejoiced when I entered the Promise Land. Beyond the gates of pearl, I walk on golden streets! I’ve touched the jasper walls, dipped my feet in the crystal sea. The beauty is beyond words, nothing can compare. I’ve seen my mansion; someday I hope I will see you here. Allow Jesus to be your Savior and guide, His word will show you the way. So please don’t cry! I hope we will meet again someday!”
Dale is survived by his wife, Karen Phelps of Kasson, MN; children, Barbara (Paul) Ragle of Decator, IL, Keith (Debbie) Phelps of Three Lakes, WI, and Sharyl (Brent) McDonald of Murphy, TX; sister, Connie (Chuck) Avery of Albert Lea, MN; sister-in-law, Connie Bjornberg of Rochester, MN; brother-in-law, Larry (Christa) Renner of Colorado Springs, CO; and 9 grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Dorothy Phelps; brother, Darrell Phelps; parents-in-law, Al and VaLeeta Renner; sister-in-law’s, Nancy Renner and Laurel Phelps; and brother-in-law, Ronald Bjornberg.
A funeral service will be held at 1:30 p.m. Friday, September 27, 2024, at First Baptist Church, 304 4th St NW, Kasson, MN, with Pastor John Todor officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will be in Old Concord cemetery in Concord, MN.
To share a special memory or condolence please visit www.czaplewskifuneralhomes.com, Czaplewski Family Funeral Homes, 801 7th St SE Kasson, MN 55940 (507) 634-6510. Blessed be his memory.
