Delbert L. 'Del' Collard, Sr

Delbert L. "Del" Collard, Sr., 79, of Monticello died at 3:58 pm, December 12, 2012 at St. Elizabeth East Hospital, Lafayette. He was born on January 3, 1933 in Hopkins Park, IL to the late Raymond and Marie (Curwick) Collard. He married Thelma Wheeldon at the Monticello First Presbyterian Church on July 10, 1954 and she survives. He attended Monon High School and was a veteran of the U.S. Army serving in the 101st Airborne as a paratrooper during the Korean War. He was employed by McMahan O'Connor Construction as a carpenter's foreman until his retirement. He was a member of the American Legion. Delbert lived his life the way he wanted and loved his family with passion and enthusiasm. He was always there for anyone who needed him. He was an excellent carpenter and handed that skill down to his sons and grandsons. He was a lover of bowling, and was known throughout town for his skill on the lanes. He also excelled in golf and played for many years, even teaching his grandson and great grandson some tips along the way. You would often find him on his John Deere riding mower, even mowing the neighbor's yard when he was ill, because she was unable to do so. He loved his rose and vegetable garden. His cucumbers were some of the best in the world. Besides his great love for his wife, Thelma, he also had another love in his life, his dog Riley. Riley was Delbert's constant companion, even during the worst of his illness. Even now, Riley awaits his return. There is some small measure of comfort for his family in knowing that he is at peace and at rest. He was a tremendous man, and will be greatly missed by all. He is also survived by a daughter, Debra (Donnie) Williams of Ocala, FL; two sons, Mike (Sherrie) Collard of Burnettsville, and Jr (Denise) Collard of Delphi; two step-daughters, Patricia K. (Doug) Benner of Springfield, OH, and Bonnie (Jeff) Deno of Lebanon; 15 grandchildren, and 16 great grandchildren. He was also preceded in death by 6 brothers and 2 sisters. Visitation will be from 4pm until 8pm Monday, December 17 at Springer-Voorhis-Draper Funeral Home. Burial will be private. In Lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to the American Lung Association. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. You may sign the online guestbook at www.springerfuneralhome.com