Chuck - Founder

Chuck, Founder

Charles Parks Dahlgren (February 22, 1952 – October 10, 2022) passed away at age 70 from complications during heart surgery. He was known as Chuck or Charlie. He was born in Olivia, MN, and grew up in Bird Island, MN. Chuck attended Concordia College and then farmed in Bird Island through 1982. In 1982, he enrolled in college again and obtained a degree in accounting in 1984, after which he became a CPA. He worked as an accountant and then as a Chief of Operations for a construction company before purchasing Ice Nine Glass Design in 1993. Ice Nine Glass Design was renamed to Crystal D, and it is where he made his impact on the world. His biggest accomplishments were found in his relationships with family, friends, coworkers, and employees that he called Memory Makers. Chuck was known for his passion for his work, drive and determination, love of learning, constant personal development, faith in Jesus, and love of family and the lake.

He is survived by many. Jeanne Dahlgren, his beloved wife; three daughters; and many grandchildren: Audra and Matthew Lehnert, and their children, Nolan, Ryan, Ruby, and Grace; Bridget Dahlgren and her daughter, Madison; Crystal and Garrett Hoelzel, and their children, Olivia, Boaz, Viviana, Simeon, and Malachi. His siblings: Suzi and John Nelson, Rick and Margaret Dahlgren, Patti and Ron Peterson, Nancy Jurgensen, Kathy and Tom Krantz, and Gretchen and Howard Anderson; along with dozens of nieces and nephews.

Chuck always believed that success is a result of hard work, persistence, and dedication. He loved being part of the recognition industry because he knew how great recipients feel when they receive Crystal D awards. This was the ultimate feel-good experience to him. Chuck brought "The WOW Effect"™ to life for each Memory Maker so we knew what it felt like, allowing us to give that same experience to our customers. He knew we make a difference to over 400,000 people every year when they work with Crystal D or receive a Crystal D award.

Chuck inspired all Memory Makers at Crystal D. He helped us uncover the best versions of ourselves, even when we didn't know it was there. He always had faith in us to do our best and do the right thing. Chuck gave with relentless generosity and changed the lives of all those around him. He gave himself and his heart without any expectation of receiving back. He was the embodiment of a servant heart.

Chuck believed that Crystal D was a great company, not because of the awards we create for our customers but because of the Memory Makers that work here. He saw us sacrifice and focus, day in and day out, and he was inspired by all Memory Makers as well as our culture that he helped foster. He always believed that greatness came from within each of us and that we make a difference.

Chuck taught us that quality is important for our awards, but it's even more important for our character. He helped us understand the meaning of integrity, not only in business, but within ourselves. He believed that Crystal D is a force for good. The impact our products have on the world and the recipients who received them will last a lifetime.

Chuck's leadership was bold and unique. Your title didn't matter to him, as everyone had his respect. Chuck loved each of us unconditionally, and every Memory Maker mattered to him as a person, not just an employee.

Chuck's passing was hard, but because of his incredible leadership and the foundation he laid for us, Crystal D will continue to thrive and Turn Emotions Into Memories™, just like he always believed it would.

Thank you for your leadership and your belief in us, Chuck. You are missed.