Delbert James Black

Delbert James Black, born on March 17, 1942, passed away on August 25, 2025, at the age of 83. He spent his final days at the Manning Community Health Centre.

Delbert was born in Notikewin to Herbert and Phoebe Black. He was predeceased by his parents, his brothers Mervyn, Cecil, Leslie (Les), and Leonard (Len), sisters-in-law Marcella and Eva, and nephew Kevin. He is survived by his nephews Dwayne (Kim), Moon (Cheryl), and Kelly (Michelle), along with numerous great-nieces and great-nephews.

Delbert was known for his love of dancing, including the jive, whenever the opportunity arose. He enjoyed walking around town, collecting bottles, and visiting friends. In his earlier years, he worked as a flag-person during highway construction and helped his brothers on their farms. He also worked at the Post Office, performing cleaning duties in the off-hours.

Delbert loved taking care of stray cats, feeding them and providing shelter. He was a quiet and reserved soul, soft-spoken and never rude. He loved playing crib and taught his nephews how to play, what cards to keep, and counting on their behalf, always honest in his scoring. Delbert was a movie enthusiast and a wealth of knowledge about films, actors, and actresses. He was great friends with the staff at the Aurora Theatre. He loved to share his knowledge of local history and was a keeper of memorabilia.

After his brother Les passed away, Delbert moved into the Del-Air Lodge in November of 2000, and then in 2021, he was recognized as the longest-running resident. Over the years, his love of crib and dancing was shared with many residents and staff.

In honoring Delbert's memory, we find comfort in knowing that his spirit lives on in the hearts of his loved ones and friends. May he rest in peace, and may his memory be a blessing to all who knew him. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Del-Air Lodge Residents Association, P.O. Box 100, Manning, AB, T0H 2M0

An intimate gathering of family and friends will be held on Friday, October 3, 2025, at 1:30 pm in the Chapel at the Del-Air Lodge in Manning. A private interment will take place at a later date in the Notikewin Vale of Peace Cemetery.

Care entrusted to Peace Valley Funeral Home (Kristi Heck)
Peace River, AB 780-624-1010

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