David Edward Delaney

Dave was a big guy with a big heart. His outspoken personality allowed him to talk to anyone about anything. He was bold in his faith and often shared Christ to whomever would listen, sometimes leading them to the Lord. He was well known for helping someone in need, whether giving a ride, providing water on the freeway when a car overheated, moving a single mother’s belongings from Colorado to Oregon, getting neighbors set up with generators during a storm, hiring someone to work around the yard, or driving someone to the airport. Dave was a godly husband who could be trusted to remain faithful. He had a beautiful singing voice, and was often told by the person in front of him at church how they appreciated listening to him. He was a good big brother and a good friend to many. His final act of kindness was being a vision donor.

No matter what lifestyle Dave chose to undertake -- farming, school bus driving, foster children, dietician at a boarding school for missionary children in Venezuela, truck driving, working in Montana -- Darlene and Dave made it an adventure together.

Dave loved his little dog Stewee, whom he adopted in Montana, NASCAR, reality shows (esp. Alaska!), motorcycle riding, hunting (in the old days), fishing, boating, and cooking for big groups. He is survived by Darlene, his wife of nearly 40 years, his sister Michelle, two nephews, two precious goddaughters, and many relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, William Edward Delaney and Carrietta Harpole Delaney, sister Linda Hecke, and brother Michael Delaney.

A viewing will be held at Howell Edwards Doerksen Thursday, Jan. 5, 2016, 1:00-5:00 pm. Private burial service at Pratum Cemetery, time to be determined.

A CELEBRATION of Dave’s life will be held Friday, Jan. 6, 2016 at 1:00 pm. at First Baptist Church, 395 Marion St. NE, Salem. Flowers may be sent to Howell Edwards Doerksen, 1350 Commercial St. SE, Salem, OR 97302. If you would like to make a lasting donation in Dave’s honor, suggestions would be: Salem First Baptist Church, Corban University, or T.E.A.M. Missions. Please direct any questions to (503) 581-3911.