Delbert Eugene Winn

Delbert Eugene Winn, an honored Veteran and respected member of our community, born on March 18, 1947, in the picturesque town of Petaluma, California, departed from us on December 1, 2024. His journey through life was woven with dedication, devotion, and a hearty sense of humor that embodied the love he lavished upon his family and friends.

After his graduation from high school in 1966, Delbert joined the Navy, where he spent his formative years stationed in Kodiak, Alaska. His time on the USS Hornet is etched in history, a poignant chapter in his life that culminated in the honor of being part of the crew that picked up the Apollo 11 astronauts—moments that reflect both his commitment to his country and the adventurous spirit that defined him.

Returning to civilian life, Delbert skillfully cultivated a career as a beekeeper for over two decades; a vocation that hinted at his deep connection to nature and wildlife. His hard work and dedication to the craft became a staple of his identity until he stepped away from the bee business in 1999. Retirement beckoned in 2004, and Delbert embraced it with vigor, spending summers in the majestic wilderness of Alaska for thirteen years—a paradise where he found solace amid the pristine landscapes that invigorated his spirit. You could also find him pursuing one of his many interests, like wood working, collecting and fixing VW cars, finding projects on his property, or occasionally casting a line in a quest to catch a fish. Del enjoyed learning about new things, and meticulously discovering just how things worked. 

As a devoted husband of 52 years to Julie Winn and a loving father to Jon and Martin Winn, Delbert nurtured friendships and family ties with the care of a true craftsman. His legacy lives on through his children, Jon (Renae) and Martin (Jennifer), who continue to carry the torch of their father's love and humor. Delbert's playful spirit resonates through his grandchildren: the vibrant Savannah and Julia, who brought light into his life, as well as Sam and Danny, whose laughter echoed the joy of their grandpa’s hidden jokes that punctuated family gatherings and timeless memories. He is also survived by his niece and nephew, who are treasured as much as his most immediate family.

Delbert's parents, Albert and Mildred Winn, greeted him in the heavens alongside his beloved sister, Beatrice Glazier, and brother-in-law, Frank Glazier, creating a blessed family reunion.

As we prepare to honor Delbert's remarkable journey, a memorial service will be held on December 12, 2024, at Furey Funeral Home in Frazee, beginning at 2pm. Stories and memories will flow like the honey he collected for over twenty years, as we bid him farewell and honor a life well-lived.