Delores Manners Obituary

Some people move through life without realizing they can contribute to others happiness. Mom wasn't that person. She made choices to engage when an opportunity presented and sometimes even when it did not. Growing up in her circle was often times exciting and sometimes bewildering. Nowadays people are cautioned to steer clear of young bears when they approach in a picnic area, that must be a new thing cause we just sat there and watched. She was an educator by trade and never stopped thinking about what - ifs. Traveling, dancing, hiking, exploring and being with people she loved and cherished were always things she was up for. Challenges were just something to overcome, and her "just do it" attitude stayed with her til she was 90. Her first husband Paul (I couldn't have asked for better) made her traveling pretty easy being in an occupation that required as much. She got involved everywhere she went, and made numerous contributions at each stop. Her second husband Burt was a gem of a man. Taking on Dell's challenges, (think skiing, camping, traveling to Silverton just to go dancing) and fostering about all the (mature dogs, and cats) they could handle because he was all in and that was who he was. I feel lucky to have been in her circle and though not in a rush, will smile and offer a big hug, when we re-acquaint.

We are saddened to have missed the remembrance event for Dell Manners. She was so very special with a smile that brightened our lives each time we saw her. We were so grateful for her efforts in getting the Senior Outdoors group started. Her work on this will continue to serve the seniors in our area in future years. I will always think of Dell whenever I'm out in the wilderness or on the dance floor. In 2000, Larry and I had a Christmas party in December. It had snowed 17 inches that day and our steep driveway to our house on the hill was a mess. We hired someone to bring people up for the party. After most people had arrived and our driver had come in, Dell showed up knocking on our door. I asked her how in the world she made it up in her little VW van. She commented with a great big smile. I drove right up.....I have great snow tires.

Condolences to Bert and her children. We would have changed our trip dates to have been at her memorial so sorry we didn't know.
Carol & Larry House

Del and Burt were such wonderful dancers together. Del and Burt and Betsy and I were often on the the first ones on the dance floor. The love of dancing created a special, warm connection between us all. Del was so graceful, and had a beautiful energy and a beautiful smile. Burt, I am so sorry you have lost your partner. Let's hope that she and Betsy are out in the universe somewhere, dancing together! Big Love and Big Hugs to you.

I met Del when we both were ushers at the Community Concert Hall. She was always so nice, and funny, and so interesting. Reading her story now, I wish I could have known her better because she sure had a lot of stories to tell. My condolences to her family. She made a big difference in a lot of kids' lives, and I'm sure many of them were much better for having had her in their life.