Delbert Dies
Delbert M. Dies, better known as “Dub” Dies to his friends and family, passed away Thanksgiving Day, November 23, 2017 quietly in his sleep at age 96. He was born in Heshbon, Pennsylvania September 22, 1921 to Edwin and Esther Gravelle Dies. He had four siblings who preceded him in death: David Alexander Dies, Leroy Zack, Edwin Dies II, and Dorothy Dies Gunter. Following graduation from Blairsville High School, joined the Army Air Corps during World War II. He met Mary Eleanor Smith, and they were married Thanksgiving Day, November 22, 1944, moving to Warren, PA shortly after. He worked at Blackstone Corporation in Jamestown, NY, and retired from the National Forge Company, Irvine, Pennsylvania. He enjoyed hunting, bowling and fishing during his earlier years, especially trips to Michigan with Joe Zaffino to salmon fish.
He is survived by four children: Bonnie Dies (Jim) Cruickshank, Angier NC, Thomas George (Marilee) Dies, Fuquay Varina NC, Nancy Dies (Neil) Campbell, Fuquay Varina NC, and William (Bill) Dies, Warren PA. Also surviving Dub are five grandchildren: Brian M. Cruickshank, Angie Cruickshank, Joshua Dies, Charissa Dies James, Bethany Christensen; nine great-grandchildren: Cassandra Cruickshank, Courtney Cruickshank, Gavin Cruickshank, Isaac James, Eli James, Elsie James, Jonah Dies, Micah Dies, and Hunter Miley; and one great-great granddaughter: Zoey Cruickshank, and several nieces and nephews. He also had a very special relationship with his nephew, Rick Dies and his family.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife in October, 1968 and a daughter, Loretta Marie, at birth. A memorial service for Mr. Dies will be held at a later date in Warren, Pennsylvania.