Delbert Edwin Montoure passed Saturday, Aug. 8, 2009, in Lakeport, with his family by his side, due to complications from a seven-year battle with mesothelioma.
Del is preceded in death by his loving wife of 53 years, Delma Garrison Montoure as well as life-long friend and brother-in-law, Forrest Grigg.
He is survived by his devoted sister-in-law, Delfa Grigg; son, Dennis (Candy); grandsons, Donald (Toby) and Robert; great-grandchildren Emilie and Ryan; niece, Tana Keyworth (Kenny); nephew, Garry Grigg (Doreen); and great-nephew, Sean McGuire.
Del was most proud of his service to this great country during World War II. As a member of the Army Infantry, he was decorated with the Philippine Liberation Ribbon with two Bronze Stars, Good Conduct Medal, World War II Victory Medal and the Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal.
After the War, Del began his career as an apprentice with the Sheet Metal Workers Union. He started his own successful heating and cooling business, Empire Sheet Metal, in Santa Rosa.
He retired at the age of 50 to travel with his wife. They enjoyed many years of travel throughout the Western United States. Del was an avid golfer and enjoyed the fact that his son and grandson loved the game as much as he did.
Del was devastated by the loss of his childhood sweetheart in January of 2000. He chose to spend the rest of his life in Lake County with his loving sister-in-law, Delfa, who was also his caregiver during his illness. He was so grateful to her for the countless hours she devoted to him.
Del was a kind and gentle soul who cared deeply for all of his family and friends. To have known and loved him is an honor.
Memorial services will be held at 1 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 20, 2009, at Lower Lake Cemetery, 9040 Lake Street, Lower Lake.
Family wishes donations to Lower Lake High School Golf Team, P.O. Box 799, Lower Lake, CA 95457.
For further information call Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary, 707-263-0357 or 707-994-5611 or visit www.chapelofthelakes.com .
