Charles Henry Dauk

Mankato Mortuary
1001 North Riverfront Drive
Mankato, MN 56001
507-388-2202

Charles Henry Dauk, age 99, of Madison Lake, MN met his heavenly Father on September 9, 2016.  His children were given the privilege of being at his side during the last several days of his peaceful passing.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 17, 2016 at All Saints Catholic Church in Madison Lake, MN with Rev. Robert Schneider officiating.  Visitation will be at the church from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Friday, September 16, with a 3:45 p.m. prayer service. There will also be a visitation one hour prior to the church service Saturday.  Mankato Mortuary will be handling the arrangements. Memorials are preferred to Mankato Hospice or All Saints Catholic Church, where Charles contributed to and attended his entire life.

Our beloved Charles was born on August 23, 1917 to Frances (Schwarble) and Henry Dauk of Eagle Lake, MN.  At the age of 6 he moved to his present farm home on the shores of Madison Lake.  He attended All Saints School, Madison Lake and then chose to become a farmer at the age of 13.  His love for farming and running a dairy never ceased.  He would often tell detailed stories of his life on the farm (both Eagle Lake and Madison Lake), painting a vivid picture of his deeply respected ancestors, as the farms were homesteaded by his German-born grandfathers.  “I always knew I wanted to farm and if I had to live my life over, I wouldn’t change a thing.  With God’s help I never had a serious farm accident, and I always loved what I did.  Not many people can say that.”  Charles was clearly proud of his early and confident life decision. He began farming with a team of horses, Bill and Dolly, and ended with GPS and touch-screen technology. His thoughtful stewardship of the land made it possible for the next generations to continue farming.

Charles married the love of his life, Lucille Weber, on November 16, 1940 in St. Clair, MN.  The wedding had to be postponed for several days because of the historic Armistice Day snowstorm. From day one they were an unwavering team and weathered any challenge that came their way, a true testament to their love and faith in each other and devotion to God.  They were married for 65 years and had 8 children:  Annette (Dayton) Fahning of New Hampton, IA; Robert (Rita) of Madison Lake, MN; Clement (JoAnne) of Tonto Verde, AZ; Anthony (Diana) of Janesville, MN; Thomas (Sharon) of Madison Lake; Kathleen (Bernard) Ploog of Madison Lake; Debra (David) Sandquist of Kasota, MN; James (Darlene) of Eagle Lake.  After Lucille’s death in February of 2006, he married Rosemary Volk on September 23, 2007.  Though the marriage was dissolved, they remained friends. Charles was preceded in death by his wife, Lucille, brothers Jerome and Leo Peter, sisters, Marion Sexton and Dorothy Roemer Burg, many in-laws and one grandchild, Angela Ploog.  He is survived by 8 children/their spouses, 23 grandchildren, 43 great grandchildren, sister, Charlotte Frederick, and sisters-in-law, Ann Dauk and Edith Dauk.

Charles and Lucille spent over 20 years wintering in Texas. They spent a lifetime hosting family events and growing their farms, and Charles documented all of it through pictures and videos.  Charles’ most cherished memories were of teaching/reminiscing daily with his sons and grandsons about farming, being with his grandchildren/great grandchildren, shaking dice at the local diner, and listening to polka music.  He sometimes gave advice, the most often heard - “Don’t believe anything you hear and only half of what you see.”-which frequently drew a chuckle.  He was the ultimate provider and champion role model of sacrifice and hard work. There is no doubt the good and faithful servant was greeted by fields and fields of heavenly souls awaiting his joyous arrival.  We thank you, Dad, for everything.  May you forever rest in the palm of His hand.

(One last thing - you’ve gotta’ let us know if the orange pop was waiting for you!)