Born in Carlyle, Saskatchewan, Del began his working career “on the rigs” in Alberta. He and Doedy met in 1969 in Calgary, and they were married in 1971. Life on the road didn’t agree with Del, so they moved to Radium where he started with Revelstoke Saw Mills in 1972. After 31 years of doing a variety of big equipment operating jobs at the mill, Del retired in 2003. Always one to stay busy, he looked after grounds maintenance at a number of homes and condos in Radium in his spare time.

But his overriding passion was for golf. Del and Doedy played at the Radium Resort for a number of years and became members at The Springs when it opened in 1988. Always a hustler, Del managed to supplement his income with “donations” from many of the Men’s Club and Couples Club members on a regular basis, for which he always had a smile.

For many years Del and Doedy travelled south in the winter, generally to further supplement his income from golf with snowbirds and locals. The last several years they wintered in Blythe, California.

Del’s other passion was quading. He was a regular at Sunday outings in the mountains. With a great deal of experience on the logging roads, he easily became the group guide, from the rear of the pack, always knowing the correct turn to make…or at least most of the time.

Never one to hold back on what he felt about a particular subject, his “Irish smile” let him get away with any comment and nickname for others. It was always a pleasure to be around him.

Del is survived by his wife Doedy of 47 years, of Radium Hot Springs, BC; brother Ron (Lex) of Campbell River, BC; his sisters Colleen (Dick) Chapman of Arcola, SK and Sherry (Roger) Morrissett of Moosejaw, SK; plus several nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents Michael John and Vina Lenora (nee Hodge) and brother Pat (Val).

There will be a Celebration of Life held for Del this summer, after his many friends return from the south.

Doedy wishes to thank Dr. Walsh and the medical staff at the Invermere and District Hospital for their sensitive and caring support of Del during his stay.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Del and Doedy’s favourite charity, the Invermere Community Animal Network (ICAN) at ICANBC.com.

Condolences may be offered at www.mcphersonfh.com.