Delbert Jay Hunsaker, age 57, passed away quietly but unexpectedly at home on November 9th, 2015.
He was born on August 5th, 1958 in Toston, Montana to Dan and Ruth (Hansen) Hunsaker. Delbert spent his life in the Crow Creek Valley attending Crow Creek School and later graduated from Broadwater County High School in 1976. He married the love of his life, Joan Miles on June 11th, 1983.
He enjoyed fishing, hunting (gophers, deer and elk), farming, backpacking and every part of nature in Broadwater County. Delbert loved his family and was happy to just be among them. He served the community in many ways, in the Jaycees, on the water board, the fireboard and was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and enjoyed serving in many callings.
Delbert loved people and always found the good in them. He was always willing to reach out and help others. Delbert was a gentle giant (82 inches) with a warm smile that will be missed by all.
He is survived by his wife, Joan and his two children, Tyler and Becky. He is also survived by his parents, Dan and Ruth Hunsaker of Townsend. Brothers; Jex and Tracy (Mauri) of Townsend. Sisters; Linda Campbell (Don Plymale) Geni Davis, Dixie Hoff (Vince) of Townsend, Donna Dee Lamb (Arnold) of Plymouth, Utah, Holly Cook (Troy) of Park City, Montana. Sisters-in-law; Cindy Hillam (Lane) of Idaho Falls, Idaho, Laurie Kearsley (Lyman) of Blackfoot, Idaho and his endless aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews that will truly miss his endless, loving nature.
A visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, November 13, 2015 in the Relief Society Room at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Townsend. Visitation will also begin at 3:00 p.m. with a funeral service to be held at 4:00 p.m. Saturday, November 14, 2015 at the Church. Burial will follow at Deep Creek Cemetery. A reception will follow in the Multi Purpose Room of the Broadwater High School.
To offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Delbert please visit below.
Service Schedule
Visitation
5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Friday November 13, 2015
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
Townsend, Montana 59644
Visitation
3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Saturday November 14, 2015
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
Townsend, Montana 59644`
Funeral Service
4:00p.m.
Saturday November 14, 2015
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
Townsend, Montana 59644
Burial
Immediately following the funeral service
Saturday November 14, 2015
Deep Creek Cemetery
Townsend, Montana 59644
Reception
Immediately following the burial
Saturday November 14, 2015
Multi Purpose Room of the Broadwater HIgh School
,
Service Schedule
Visitation
5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Friday November 13, 2015
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
Townsend, Montana 59644
Visitation
3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Saturday November 14, 2015
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
Townsend, Montana 59644`
Funeral Service
4:00p.m.
Saturday November 14, 2015
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
Townsend, Montana 59644
Burial
Immediately following the funeral service
Saturday November 14, 2015
Deep Creek Cemetery
Townsend, Montana 59644
Reception
Immediately following the burial
Saturday November 14, 2015
Multi Purpose Room of the Broadwater HIgh School
,
Share
JJ says
To the Hunsaker family I am very sorry for your loss of Delbert he will be greatly missed and if there is anything I can do let me know #lost but never forgotten
Mike Lowry says
To say I was shocked to hear about my good friend, ( big brother ) . I can easily say that I love this man who was a great example to me of someone who not only knew the Gospel ,but lived what he knew. I never was around him that I didn’t feel happier because of that big smile and gentle love he displayed to all . I will truly miss him and look forward to the next life where I am sure he is spreading happiness and joy. Joan, if there is anything I can do for you don’t hesitate ,PLEASE , love you Mike Lowry
Jim & Suzi Stanger says
Dear Joan and Family,
SMILE and being positive always– we so loved your dear husband and father for the laughter and happiness he shared wherever he was present. We admire the great love and happiness he felt from his family and his work. He was so committed to serving others and he loved other people sincerely. He had so many talents and abilities. We cannot adequately express our admiration of him and your great family. We are so thankful for your examples and influence for good in our lives. The many years you served together in the Billings Temple will always make us think of you both together in the Temple. We love your beautiful family.
Aubra Lewis says
I loved his smile and would try to make him laugh just to keep seeing it. I spent many nights traveling across the state watching Delbert, Tracy, and my brother play basketball. Joan, Becky, and Tyler..we love you.
Laurie Nugent says
Delbert is very fondly remembered by anyone who knew him because of the wonderful way he treated people. Always friendly and accepting, quiet in manner and voice and one who would take the time to stop and visit. Although his years on earth are through, he made a difference and left a wonderful family. Blessings and love, Laurie and Terry Nugent
Afton and Wally Melcher says
We were deeply shocked and saddened by the news of Delbert’s passing. We are privileged to have known him and to have served in the Billings temple with he and Joan. We will always remember is big, loving smile and gentleness. His passing will truly leave a hole in our hearts for a long while. We send our deepest condolences to Joan and Delbert’s family. He is gone our sight, but never our hearts. Afton and Wally Melcher
Val and Roy Hornsveld says
Joan and family, We loved Delbert and pray for you through this difficult time.
David Kearsley says
He always made family get togethers fun. We’re going to miss our gentle giant :.( God be with you till we meet again Uncle
Jill Kolberg says
Words can not say how my heart saddens to read of loosing a childhood neighbor and dear friend to Crow Creek Valley. Many prayers for healing to all of you !!! Ruth, Dan, Joan and family . From Jill on the Hill
Dee Ellen Hensley Toy says
To the,Hunsaker family I send my prayers. Delbert wa the kindest person you could ever meet. I remember being in grade School with him and will never forget him coming to the ranch to bless my mom before she passed away in July 2014. He was a good friend and may God keep his hands on this family. Love to all of you. Dee Ellen
Micki Williams McCubbins says
Joan and family,
So sorry for your loss. Delbert was always kind and caring to our family. Crow Creek Valley won’t be the same without him.
Micki and family
Teena Leanhart says
Delbert was a kind and loving soul. Many memories of smiles shared from childhood. My loving prayers to all of his family-an extension of mine. God has received him home – an angel forever.
Teena Leanhart
Abe Fandrich says
Joan and family,
I am very sorry to hear of your loss. Delbert was always a kind and gentle person to everyone he met, everyone enjoyed his wonderful personnelity. His smile and laugh were always a joy to see and hear. He will be missed by so many.
Abe and family
Bob and Linda Davis says
Our sincere sympathy to all of you. Delbert always made us feel happier just by talking to him with his upbeat personality and contagious smile. What a loss for the community. Our best to all.
Jamie & Kari Williams says
Delbert was such a good guy. Always had a smile on his face and was such a gentle soul. He will definitely be missed. Our heart goes out to his family.
Wendy Peterson says
I never met Delbert, but Becky spoke so highly of him that I wish I had. Sounds like he was a one in a million. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Honaker family.
Joanne Slifka says
Ruth, Dan, Joan, Tyler, Becky and entire Hunsaker Family,
I send my condolences and prayers to all. Our community will forever feel the deep loss of such a wonderful, kind, gentle person and neighbor, who always brought sunshine and positivity to those around him. He always made time to visit and flash that signature “smile” that everyone has mentioned. We have all been Blessed to have known such GOOD man, who lived his faith every day in everything he did. Cherish the beautiful memories and know he is waiting to meet you all again in the future and guard you until then. ??
Chuck and Lisa Larson says
Joan and family,
Delbert was a wonderful man with a ready smile for everyone. His kind and caring personality always made others feel welcome and loved. He will truly be missed. We pray for peace and comfort at this most difficult time.
Karee (Vogl) Eichinger says
Joan and family-
My prayers are with you during such a difficult time. Delbert was always quick to say “hi” and had a warm smile and demeanor. I am so very sorry for your loss and will continue to lift you up in prayer. God Bless!
Lois Magdall says
Blessings to the Hunsaker Family
May God be with you at the loss of your love one.
Because he loved as he lived, this is my prayer, that your love may abound to spread the love and joy that Delbert gave to everyone he met.
He was amazing as a Christian and Friend, and that made him a hero in many ways.
God bless you all and may you find comfort each day in memories.
Brandi nance says
Joan and family,
I’m so sorry to hear of this loss. He is such a wonderful man and always has been. I remember as a child he would come and visit my class in first grade as though we were all his kids. He always had a smile and treats too. You will be sorely missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of
You. Rest in paradise my friend.
Mandi Ferrat says
The last time I saw Delbert was last summer(2014) when he came and said a final blessing with our family before Grandma Elaine passed away. He truly was a gentle giant. His love and kindness was so comforting to our family in that difficult moment. For that I will be forever grateful. Joan was my first grade teacher and it was her first year at the school. She came and introduced herself to her students in our homes before the school year started. I am so sorry for your loss. May you find peace and comfort when you need it most. And may you be surrounded by the love you all have shared with so many.
Sincerely,
Mandi Ferrat
Lee & Avone Holmes says
We are so sorry for you loss. What a schock and so unexpected. We have so many good times and association with both of you and your family May Hevenly Father be with you in this time of need. Our prayers are with you.
Geri Hansen Colvin says
Joan. Much love and prayers to you. I am so sorry for your loss. I still remember you sharing the story of your journey to finding Delbert and the love you share. Love you tons.
Vickie Rauser says
Joan and family,
When I think of Delbert, I, like so many others, remember his big, big smile and his gentle ways. My prayers are with you in your sorrow. May God will wrap you in His loving arms and ease the pain of your sorrow.
Kim Gilligan says
Joan, Becky and Tyler: Such sorrow to lose such a wonderful person. Delbert was always had kind words, and that great smile that lit up his face. My heart breaks for you all. May you find comfort in God’s love. Praying for you
Rebecca Mitchell says
Wayne and I will never forget the time Wayne was asked to play Santa. Wayne said he’d do it if Delbert would be his little elf. Delbert enthusiastically joined him on stage ( green elf shoes and all) to pass out goodies to the kids. He was always so happy, and I think it was because he knew he was on the Lord’s side in all he did. Our love and prayers.
Kris and Gene Ross says
Joan
We were saddened by the news of Delbert’s passing. He was such a good friend to me in high school! I’ll always appreciate that. Many prayers for all his family!!
Kris (Toombs) Ross and family.
April Seidel says
John and I were talking about what a kind person Delbert was today. John remembers a fun pheasant hunt they went on so many years ago. We will be praying for peace for you family ❤️
John and Sharon Wilkins says
Dearest Joan, Tyler and Becky ~
Please accept our heartfelt sympathy in the loss of Delbert. He had the biggest heart and was always so kind and welcoming each time we saw him. He took such good care of his family and was truly your rock. Know that we love you very much and pray that the joyous times you spent with him will help to ease the pain of loss.
Our love,
John and Sharon and family
Bob and Elaine Graveley says
Joan, Tyler, Becky, Dan and Ruth and families. We are so very sad to hear of Delbert’s passing. He was a wonderful man who always had a smile for everybody. He was definitely a child of God. Please hold your wonderful memories close to your heart. God bless each one of you. We will hold you up in prayers.
Dave Rauser says
Joan, Dan, Ruth and family,
Man the years have soared by and it has been a long time since I last saw Delbert. I will miss the times we fished Spring creek from the Hunsaker place to the Rauser place. Delbert and Tracy have and always will be my very good freinds. Delbert will be missed but always remembered as a gentle person with a huge heart. You all are in my prayers.
judy rauser snellman says
to the family of Delbert Hunsaker, I was very sorry to hear about delb j . he was a great guy and will be missed. Dan, Ruth, Joan and family you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Jeff Hinch says
The gentle giant. Delbert was one of the nicest, easiest going guys that I can ever remember knowing. I am truly sorry to hear of his passing and hope his loved ones and friends can find comfort in knowing he was well loved by many.
Bart & Trish says
It is with deep sadness to hear of the passing of Delbert! May your wonderful memories keep your hearts warm with his love. May god hold his family in his arms for comfort! He touched so many of our lives in such different ways, always with love & a smile. Hugs & prayers!
Meghan (Fautsch) Mangels says
Joan, Tyler, and Becky,
Thank you for sharing such a wonderful man with the rest of us. I still remember the trip to the youth Stake conference in Dillon my junior year in high school. Tyler and I fought over shotgun in the van and Delbert had the utmost patience with all of us “young adults” in the van. My prayers and healing thoughts are with you and your family.
Scott and Dawn Scoffield says
Joan, Tyler, Becky, Dan, Ruth and the entire Hunsaker family,
Our words can not even begin to express the sadness we feel over your loss of Delbert. He was the true definition of a true gentle giant, always the gentleman, so kind and generous! He will be missed by many but never forgotten. Hugs and prayers to all of you
Tracy says
There are no words to express the feeling of loss of my brother. The memories I will cherish forever. The thousands of buckets of water we hauled to drown gophers out, the badger episode, hunting and fishing together were just a few of the memories. No one could out fish my brother. The time on the farm working with our Dad will not be forgotten.
Thank you Joan for making my brothers life complete. He was never happier than when you came into his life and was able to raise a beautiful family together.
I will always remember the patience and that great smile you had. The kindness you showed to all the people you touched lives with.
Our family thanks you all for the kindness you have shown, it is a comfort for all of us.
I love and miss you my brother
Tracy
Sheri says
So saddened by this. Big D will be missed by so many. He always made me smile and had such a kind, gentle soul. He was a great man. Joan, Becky, and Tyler, my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Darrel and Robin says
We will forever miss our sweet friend.
Vern Stanfill says
Dear Joan and family,
I will always cherish our time together and Delbert’s kindness and quiet dignity. He loved everyone and treated everyone with respect and kindness. What an example to us all. We love you and you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Calleen Rivas says
The bond you shared with your loved one doesn’t end with death. The lessons you’ve learned, the memories you’ve shared, and the love you all had for each other lives on and on.
Through all the years to come, he will be there by your side, whenever you share a story about the times you spent together. May that thought bring you comfort. You are all in my prayers. Respectfully, and with love, Calleen Rivas
Holly Joy Cook says
To remember Delbert is to know of his love and acceptance for me as his sister. He was truly a saint in my eyes. When I would speak of contradictions of Bible or church doctrine, he would say with his sweet big smile, ” Remember the Lord loves you Holly, and do your best to obey Him.” He trusted in doing what he knew was right, His love for the Lord and loving his fellowmen and treating them all with respect shows, he did what he preached and walked the walk.
I am forever grateful to have been his sister, he was always there to lend a helping hand and a hug. I will miss our conversations on earth, I will just have to be more in tune with his spirit now to continue those conversations
. My heart goes out to Joan and his babes, You made him a happy husband and Dad.
I love you Delbert Jay, my personal back adjuster, friend and brother.
Love your sister
Holly
Vince and Dixie says
Dad and Mom, Joan, Tyler and Becky,
Thank you for giving us such an awesome brother and person. He was and is such an inspiration to all of he left behind to try harder to live as he did. He gives all of us something to look forward to when we pass on– he will be there waiting with those big bear hugs and that brilliant smile. He not only was a fun little brother but a wonderful man that has done so much to help my family grow in faith and spirit.
Love you my little brother and miss so much it hurts and I know the whole family feels the same.
Joe and lisa Jepson says
We are so very sorry for your loss and want you to know you are all in our thoughts and prayers – may wonderful memories bring you comfort and peace….
Chera Minkler says
So sorry, Joan.
Chera Minkler says
Joan, So sorry.
Roger Davis says
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Hunsaker Family. Delbert had one of the few smiles that would light up a room and make you feel so comfortable. Getting on the bus as a first grader and seeing this gentle giant was intimidating until he smiled and helped you off the bus if you needed it. He will be truly missed but never forgotten. Thanks for touching us all, Delbert.
Stan Wells says
My condolences to the Hunsaker family and all of Delbert’s friends. He will be missed.
Art Graham says
I send my condolences on the early passing of a son, husband, brother and friend. Especially I will keep my awesome high school classmate Jex in thoughts and prayers as Jex and family endure and transcend their loss.
Mitchell Stocks says
You’ll always be missed big guy.
My thoughts and prayers are with the extended Hunsaker family.
Mitchell Stocks
Tiffany Rauser says
To the entire hunsaker family. So sorry to hear of d elberts passing. I hope the wonderful memories you have of him, will help you in this difficult time. Sending lots of prayers to all of you.
Lonette Grover Hunt says
I am sending my prayers, love and thoughts your way at this sad time. Delbert was a great person as all the Hunsaker’s are. I was a classmate of Donna Dee and knew most of you well. I know how hard loosing a loved ones are and I know you will miss him always until you meet again. Just think of the wonderful reunion he is having with all the family, friends, and Ward Members who have gone on before!
Lori Moore says
I wish I could be there to celebrate Delbert’s life with you, but my love and thoughts and prayers will be with. My favorite memory of Delbert was the Halloween party where Delbert played the part of the giant that each of the children attempted to slay. It was funny because he was supposed to be a mean giant but he couldn’t stop smiling. Thank heaven for our Savior and his wonderful plan of salvation. I hope you will find comfort in His promise of a glorious resurrection and reunion. Lots of love for your family.
Sarah Richins says
I am so sorry for your loss! I hope and pray that you will be able to find the peace and comfort that our Savior offers during this difficult time!
Julie Zipperian says
Delbert was 1of a kind! I never saw him without a smile on his kind face.
My thoughts and prayers to the entire Hunsaker Family……….
Dave Pratt says
I never took the time to do much with Del, but have always considered him a friend and a wonderful man. I will miss him.
Denise Moudree says
To Delbert’s loving wife, children and parents: I grew up with Delbert in the Crow Creek Valley. Like everyone else, I appreciated his kind, gentle ways always accompanied with his happy grin. I’m sorry he had to leave so early. Almost the youngest sibling, but going ahead to do whatever he and God have planned. He was loved and he helped others. That’s the very best kind of life to have. My prayers for all of you.
Theresa Talsma and Calder Toombs says
We are so sorry for the loss of Delbert. He truly was a gentle giant. Wherever you happened to see Delbert you knew you would be honored with his brilliant smile. The world will be a little less bright with Delbert gone. Our thoughts and prayers to the whole Hunsaker family.
Dana Swenson Stott says
Dear Joan and Hunsaker Family,
So sorry to hear of Delbert’s passing.
I remember when you guys were engaged and first married. I always thought “that is the kind of marriage I want! It will last forever!” Thanks for that example to me. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Rick and Halane Van Dyken says
Joan, Tyler, Becky, Dan, Ruth, and the rest of the Hunsaker family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you, as you travel through this valley. It was a privilege to know Delbert. He made the world a better place. He was such a kind hearted gentle man. He will be greatly missed.
The VanDykens
Dick Hansen says
Uncle Dan , Aunt Ruth I,m sorry for your loss. I,ll never forget throwing fish in the trains or the time I spent with your family Dick Hansen
Doug and Kathryn Williams says
He was our hometeacher for over 7 years he will be missed my us. He was very willing with priesthood blessings and showed up nearly every month like clockwork. Doug has fond memories of him dating back to when he was a deacon. We will miss him greatly.
Gord says
My heart aches for the Hunsaker family. I had known Delbert for less than six years. His dedication to his friends, family and faith is well documented, but his efforts and abilities at work are also tremendous.
We have lost a great man.
Cliff and Diane Jones says
I can’t tell you how sad we are at the passing of Brother Hunsaker. Joan and Delbert worked on our shift at the temple and we became fast friends. Delbert always had a smile on his face. We always liked to help those who traveled from out of town to stay with us while working at the temple. We got a special bed for them when they came because of his height thought it would be the best for him.
To the Hunsaker family our thoughts and prayers will be with you. Their is no doubt in our minds that he is furthering the work beyond the veil….doing his part to move the work along as we strive to do our part here. We will miss seeing him!!