Athol Hugh Delzell's Obituary
Athol (Al) Hugh Delzell passed away peacefully on May 17th, 2013, shortly after his 89th birthday.
Born in Tipton, CA on May 13th, 1924 to Hugh and Laura Delzell, Al worked and struggled to help provide for his mother as well as his brother and sister during the Depression, finally enlisting in the U.S. Navy on December 3, 1941. Al spent the next 4 years defending his country upon the USS Pennsylvania. He often spoke of how his enlisting was the best thing he ever did. After the Pennsy took a hit from a torpedo, the ship was towed to the states, where he met his future bride while the ship was in Seattle for repairs and refitting.
After leaving with an Honorable Discharge from the Navy in 1945, Al wasted no time in marrying the light of his life, Edith Mae Lewis, in December 1945. Al went on to complete his education, graduating from the University of Washington and obtaining a master's degree from Oregon State College as well. It was important to Al that he made a difference in young people's lives working as a guidance counselor at Jason Lee Junior High School and Stadium High School in Tacoma, WA. He retired after 30 years, and he and Edith spent their time in several volunteer capacities. They were also active in the Tacoma Mountaineers, as well as the Pierce County Retired Teachers Association.
Al was preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, Edith, in 2012, but is survived by their 3 sons, 7 grandchildren, and one great-grandson.
A graveside service is planned at Cedar Lawns Memorial Park, 7200 180th Ave NE in Redmond, WA, for Wednesday, May 29th at 11 AM with viewing at 9:30 AM.
A viewing only will be held in Tacoma at Mountain View Funeral Home the afternoon of Tuesday the 28th of May.
In lieu of flowers, it is suggested that a donation be made in Al's name to the National Alzheimer's Association . You may donate at: http://www.alz.org/join_the_cause_donate.asp
Arrangements by Mountain View Funeral Home, 253-584-0252. Please sign the online guest book at www.mountainviewtacoma.com.
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