Robert Delancy

Robert "Bob" DeLancy, 94 Robert ("Bob") Delancy, longtime resident of Port Orchard passed away peacefully on Father's Day, June 19, 2005 after cardiac surgery at the University of Washington Medical Center. Born Robert George Vancouver DeLancy in Vancouver, B.C. September 19, 1910, Robert spent his early years living in Blaine and Bellingham. He graduated from Mount Baker High School, staying in Bellingham to attend what is now Western Washington University where he majored in History and English. Aside from his academics, Robert excelled in sports, especially track. Upon moving to the Port Orchard area in 1936, Robert began working as a truck driver for Wilkins Distributing. In the 1940's and 1950's he also served in the National Guard and as a volunteer firefighter for the Yukon Harbor Fire Department. In 1958, he became a door-to-door milkman for Price's Dairy and subsequently, Darigold. He retired in 1973, but spent another 10 years on a part-time job with the South Kitsap School District on the film run. Robert had a need to stay active. One of his favorite pastimes was chopping wood and decorating his property with neatly stacked cords. It gave him great satisfaction to work outdoors. He retained a high level of agility and endurance even into his early 90's. Also important to Robert was his church family. He was a current member in long standing of Bethany Lutheran Church and former member of First Lutheran Church. He taught Sunday School Classes and sung baritone in choirs for a total of over 40 years. Robert bowled on Hi Joy leagues until age 93. Since October 2003, Robert lived at Ridgemont Terrace Apartments, where he will be greatly missed by the other residents and staff. A special thanks goes out to everyone who added happiness to his last years. Robert is survived by his wife of 52 years, Doris (Moen) DeLancy of Port Orchard; daughter, Adele Bainter and husband Greg Bainter of Yakima; daughter, Doreen Ross and husband Mark Ross of Winnipeg, Manitoba; one grandchild, Lauren Bainter. Also surviving are nephews Darrald DeLancy of Port Orchard, Martin Grezch of Lynnwood, and Dennis Hamilton of Stanwood; nieces Constance Wood of Edmonds, Lila Marriot of Olympia, Jane Hamilton Hovde of Bellingham, and Margaret (Margie) Schlosser of Texas. Robert was preceded in death by his first wife, Zeltha May (Hall) DeLancy in 1950; five sisters: Edna Zeigler, Clara Hamilton, Elsie Hovik, Gladys DeLancy and Betty Grezch. Two brothers, Darrald DeLancy and Fredrick DeLancy also preceded him in death. Robert was an inspiration, known for his kindness and quick wit. He will always be fondly remembered. Visitation will be held Monday noon to 5 p.m., and Tuesday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Rill's Life Tribute Center in Port Orchard, with a memorial service 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 29 at Bethany Luthern Church in Port Orchard. Contributions in Robert's memory may be made to Bethany Lutheran Church, 151 Tremont W., Port Orchard, WA 98366; Olympic Lutherhaven Bible Camp, 9375 NW Holly Rd., Bremerton, WA 98312; or Ryther Child Center, 2400 NE 95th St., Seattle, WA 98115