Service Details
In keeping with Dale’s wish, a private service for the family was held. Burial, with full military honors, will be held in the Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery.
Dale C. Zierten, 77, of Racine, passed away at the Aurora Medical Center-Mt. Pleasant on Sunday, March 1, 2026. He was born in Racine on November 30, 1948, the son of the late Robert C. and Jeanne I. (nee: Rapps) Zierten.
Dale was a graduate of William Horlick High School, Class of ’66. During the Vietnam War, Dale served his country as a Military Policeman with the U. S. Army, in Korea. He later attended the Police Academy. On March 6th, 1971, Dale married the love of his life, Susan. He joined the Racine Police Department in 1969. Dale retired in 1991as a Detective. He was deeply involved in Racine civics and community as a former Racine School Board member, Racine County Board member, a union official for the Racine Police Department, and the Racine Art Museum Board member.
Dale served as a member of the S.W.A.T. team for the Racine Police Department and served as the head hostage negotiator. During that time, he received several citations and awards. Dale was a member of the City of Racine 20 Year Club.
After retiring, Dale found his true passion in art. From appraisals and restorations, to teaching himself how to expertly frame anything, he eventually opened Dale’s Upstairs Gallery. He also was an accomplished cook, had a joke for every occasion, and loved relaxing with his dogs.
Surviving are his wife, Susan I. Zierten; their daughter, Jessica (Timothy Hass) Zierten, of Milwaukee; three brothers, Mark (Ethel) Zierten, of Los Angeles, Guy (Justine) Zierten, of Orange, CA, and Robert Zierten, of Los Angeles; his twin sister, Diedre “Dee Dee” (Marc Wollman) DuMont, of Racine; mother-in-law, Ethelene Martin, of Hopedale, IL: brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Lawrence (Patricia) Martin, of Woodstock, IL, Robert (Donna) Martin, of Ballwin, MO, Daniel (Janet) Martin, of Morton, IL, Thomas (Colleen) Martin, of Farmington, IL, David DiPalma, of Franksville, Luther Carlisle, of Milwaukee, and Mary Ann Picardo, of Sun City, AZ. His nieces, nephews, other relatives, the police brotherhood, and friends also survive Dale. In addition to his parents, Dale was preceded in death by two brothers, Lee and Kent Zierten; and a sister-in-law, Joy Zierten.
David J. DiPalma says
I’m so sorry for your loss.
Michael T. Nelson 705 W. State St. Mauston, WI. 53948 says
To Dale’s Families, This Is a SAD day for ALL of us, but especially for all of you. Dale was my Cousin (in some way) never really could figure It out, but through the Nielsen part of the Family. Dale was one of my childhood favorites, along with his Twin DeeDee. We spent many a day together, while they lived on Taylor Ave. to Douglas Ave. I have spoken to them a few times over the years, but as I don’t live In Racine any longer, It’s become estranged so to speak. Dale was a wonderful Boy, and became a Wonderful adult becoming a Great Racine Policeman, and Detective. Becoming an Art expert, AND artist with his own studio. He was really a whole lot more than I could have ever dreamed. To his Beautiful Wife, and wonderful children, you were very fortunate to have such a WONDERFUL person In your lives, and I’m certain you have many fun times to discuss. My extreme sympathy to all of you.
Anonymous says
Dang, I meant to get over and have a cup with him and carl, put it off too long. Will miss you.
Linea &Clifford says
Known Dale and Suzi over 20 years.
All those Grayslake shows.😍
If we can be of any help to you and your family going forward, don’t hesitate to call.
We will miss you.
Connie Cobb Madsen says
Susie,
I am so very sorry. Dale was such a good guy and he will certainly be missed. Hugs to you.
Jerry and Jenny Dubiel says
Susie so sorry to hear about Dale. Our prayers go out to you and your family. We have so many fond memories of a time long ago. Give Jessica a hug from us.
God Bless
Bobby says
Dale is my brother. I regret that I was never able to walk in his shoes, to understand his complexities and to share the joy he brought to so many.
Wait for us on the other side, brother; we won’t be long.
Anonymous says
Susie and family. So sorry to hear about your loss. John always had a good time talking art with Dale. Here and at Grayslake.
John and Pam
Kathy and Tony Trentadue says
Such a kind and courageous man. He will be missed.
EUGENE J DUNK says
Suzi and family,
I got to know Dale a little when I worked at the PD in Community Service. A little while later (in the 80s) we served on the Racine School Board. Dale was smart, reasonable and always in control.
A great example for a young leftist who learned from his experience and calmness.
Most of all even when Dale didn’t agree with me, he was still encouraging , friendly and beyond reproach. He was very special.
Skip Higgins says
While we lived and worked in Racine, the Zierten’s were like a second family and Dale, even closer than a brother to me. I’m so very sorry for your family loss Suzi & Jessica, he is missed!
Tom Karkow says
I had many encounters with Dale during my WRJN reporting days, all pleasurable. What a good guy to know. Condolences to the family.