Delbert “Del” Thomas Escher

Delbert was born July 23, 1937 in Collinsville, IL to Alfred and Louise (Preloger) Escher. He married Nancy Schaller May 21, 1960; she preceded in death on May 26, 2006.

He was also preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Leroy Escher and Bob Escher; mother and father in law Ethel and Frank Schaller, brother in law Wayne Schaller, sister in law Sharon Vandeveer, nephews Dwayne Schaller, Gordon Escher and Raymond Escher, dear friend, Lorraine Pierce; and his beloved dog, Lizzy.

Delbert is survived by his three sons, Delbert Escher Jr. M.D. (Amy Covalesky) of Ballwin, MO., Doug (Theresa) Escher of Smithton, IL, and Dwight (Darren) Escher of Washington, IL; five grandchildren, Zach, MacKenzie, Landon, Brayden and Jackman; and his dear companion in his finals years Doris Smith and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Del began his career with the railroad, employed by Wabash which became the Northern & Southern for 40 plus years, before retiring in 2000. His passions in life included hunting and fishing. He enjoyed his time in Southern Illinois at his clubhouse, where he spent many days making friends and connections. He shared the beauty of the Ohio River and the Shawnee National Forrest, with everyone in conversations, pictures and stories.

Through his life, he raised hunting dogs and was a 60 year member of the NRA , as well as an active members of the Millstadt Coon Club, and the Maryville and Sparta Gun Clubs.

He was a proud 1956 graduate of Collinsville High School and had memorabilia from his alma mater many years after his time there. He was an avid St. Louis Cardinal Baseball fan and loved old country music. He enjoyed watching classic tv shows and the stock market changes, waiting for the best interest rates and sharing it with anyone he thought needed to know.

Above all else, Del was proud of his sons and grandchildren and cherished their time spent together. The memories and laughter shared will be missed by friends, family, neighbors who loved him dearly.

A visitation for Delbert will be held on Friday, March 15, 2024 from 4:00 P.M.- 7:00 P.M. at Lake View Funeral Home, Fairview Heights, IL.

A funeral service will be held Saturday, March 16, 2024 at 11:00 A.M. at Lake View Funeral Home, Fairview Heights, IL. Final interment will follow at Lake View Memorial Gardens, Fairview Heights, IL.

Memorial donations may be made to Hunt of a Lifetime, either at the funeral home or at https://huntofalifetime.org/.