DELMAR WOLFE obituary

Delmar Daniel Wolfe, 80, died Monday, Oct. 6, 2003, at a Chester hospital.

Memorial services will be at 2 p.m. on Thursday at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Chester, followed by a reception. Burial of ashes will be at the Erickson Cemetery south of Chester.

Delmar was born May 23, 1923, to Daniel and Josephine (Steen) Wolfe in Columbia Falls. He received his early schooling in the Flathead Valley, then came to Chester with his family in 1933. He grew up on the Steen farm south of town and attended the Erickson country school nearby. He graduated from Chester High School in 1941.

In those early years, Delmar worked on the Arvin Boreen farm, then began farming on his own. In addition, he bought a small "drive-in" restaurant in Tacoma, Wash., which he operated during the nonfarming season for several years. He was a certified private pilot and did some aerial crop straying in the 1950s. He also worked as a part-time bartender at the Chester Vets Club for several years.

Delmar married Gerry (Grubb) Groseclose on July 12, 1962, at Sparta, N.C. They made their home on his farm south of Chester during most of their married life. In addition to farming, he worked in farm implement sales, first for Thielman Implement of Chester and then for Morris Rodweeder of Canada. Because of declining health, he retired from farming in 1986. He and Gerry continued to live on the farm until 1994, when they moved to Chester. He had numerous health problems and hospitalizations these past few years.

Delmar was a lifetime member (56 years) of the Elks Club in the Havre and Shelby lodges, a charter member of the Chester Lions Club, a longtime member of the Joplin Masonic Lodge, and a confirmed member of Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Chester. In addition, he served on the early board of the Liberty County Hospital and was a committeeman for the local Democratic Party. He was a loyal blood donor over the years.

Delmar enjoyed many hobbies throughout his life, including flying, hunting, fishing, swimming, boating, camping, dancing and bowling. He was an avid fan of local sports and also enjoyed professional sports. He always cheered for the underdogs or any team that was playing the New York Yankees. He was a good cook, especially his breakfasts and homemade stews. He also enjoyed playing cards, mainly pinochle. A good handyman, he liked to "putter in his shop" and he always took pride and care in his machinery, equipment and automobiles. He liked to "doodle" or read; he was well-read on many subjects. He collected belt buckles, miniature vintage toy cars and commemorative whiskey bottles.

Up until the past few years, Delmar was a social man who loved to be with people. He had a good sense of humor and liked to tell stories. You always knew Delmar was in the room because of his hearty, distinct laugh. His children will remember him as being patient and understanding.

Delmar and Gerry were married for 41 years and were good friends and companions. They made several memorable trips, including their Caribbean and Hawaii adventures.

Delmar was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Anna Mae Hanson and Maxine Wigen; brother-in-law, Leo Wigen; and grandson, Jason Groseclose.

Survivors include his wife, Gerry of Chester; son, Ron (Bev) Groseclose of Hingham; daughters, Sharon (Robert) Gomke of Kremlin and Linda (Don) Dill of San Diego, Calif.; four grandsons; brothers, Kenneth (Betty Jean) Wolfe, Dean (Fay) Wolfe and Roger (Fay) Wolfe, all of Chester; brother-in-law, Albert Hanson of Chester; and numerous nephews and nieces.

Memorials may be made to the Liberty County Hospital, the "Gift of Life," Our Savior's Lutheran Church, or to a donor's choice.

Arrangements are by Rockman Funeral Chapel of Chester.