Dale Wray Hrbek

Dale Wray Hrbek affectionately known as “Hurricane” or “Cane” received his wings to the gates of Heaven on August 3, 2023. Dale was born on August 18, 1951 to the late Milton and Ellen Hrbek of Verdigre, Nebraska. Dale was proceeded in death by his daughter Lynne, brother Tom and sister Barbara.

Born and raised in the small town of Verdigre, Nebraska, Dale graduated from Verdigre High School in 1969. He graduated from Northeasten Nebraska College in 1971 and was drafted into the Army. Dale earned his black belt in Tae Kwon Do in 1973 while stationed in Hawaii.  After completing his service in the Army, he opened his own Karate school in Norfolk, Nebraska in 1974. Dale moved to Philadelphia in 1976 to pursue a career in professional kickboxing, fighting under the name “Hurricane Hrbek”. Dale was not only a professional kickboxer, but also a certified boxing trainer. Dale's love of sports continued as he coached softball for many years at Moss AA. He coached his daughters and granddaughters teams for many years, leading them all to multiple championship wins. Dales’ love for carpentry was just as great as his love for weight lifting, karate and boxing. Dale owned and operated his own carpentry business “JD Improvements”. He retired from Temple University Hospital in 2021 after an 18 year career as a carpenter.   

Dales leaves to cherish his memory his Wife Carol Hrbek (Capriotti), children Chucky and Danielle, Kristin and Michael, Joshua, Samantha and Lavar, brother Larry, 11 grandchildren,Frankie, Ashlyn, Jonathan, Joseph, Daniel, Kylie, Dominic, Sabrina, Deminique, Brittany and Reghan, many great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. 

Dale will be greatly missed. Anyone who came in contact with him, knew how special he truly was.

Please join the Hrbek family after 6:00 pm on Friday, August 11, 2023 at Delaware Valley Cremation Center 7350 State Road Philadelphia, PA 19136 for a gathering of remembrance in honoring and celebrating Dale’s life. Family sharing will begin at 7:00 pm with time for refreshments and fellowship afterwards, until 9:00 pm. Dale's family will be accessible to receive the loving comfort of your condolences, remembrances and support throughout the gathering.