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BORN

1946

DIED

2014

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Keizer Funeral Chapel

4365 River Road N

Salem, Oregon

Michael DalPonte Obituary

Michael Valentine DalPonte

March 29, 1946 - June 21, 2014

Michael "Mike" Valentine DalPonte, age 68, passed away to be with our Lord on Saturday, June 21, 2014 at his home in Keizer, Oregon, surrounded by his loved ones. Mike battled a Glioblastoma Multiforme, terminal brain cancer for 18 months.

Mike was born on March 29, 1946 in Washington D.C to Peter Louis Dal Ponte and Crystal E. Osborne DalPonte. They and his brother, Tom DalPonte, preceded him in death.

He graduated from Fairfax High School, in Fairfax, Virginia in 1964 where he was a three-sport All Star athlete. He graduated from Michigan State University in 1969. Mike lived and traveled to many parts of the world as the son of an Army Colonel.

Mike met the love of his life, Barbara "Betsy" Newman DalPonte in Honolulu, Hawaii in 1966. The two were married on October 7, 1967 in Three Rivers, Michigan. Mike enjoyed a 33-year career with State Farm Insurance.

His joy of sports and children was a legacy. He devoted many years to coaching Boys Club basketball and Keizer Little League softball. He was passionate about nature, fishing, and music, and was a great fan of the Blues. Over the years they became avid and expert gardeners.

The essence of our father and husband was his comforting and sincere appreciation of the moments of time with his family and friends. His every acquaintance was unique and became an instant friend. He made a difference in the life of so many. His value of each day and uniqueness in each moment, was passed on to all the children he coached over the years. He taught the importance of positive effort over the worry of success. We hope he understood how many lives he touched and enhanced.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, his daughters, Lisa (Josh) Emerson and Kelli (Tony) Lelack, both of Keizer; and six grandchildren ~ Delaney and Cameron Engle, Chloe and Noah Lelack and Lily and Jesse Emerson. He also leaves his sister Kristi (Robert) Maling of Huntington Beach, CA, and many nieces and nephews he cherished.

Mass for him will be held on Friday, June 27, at 1:30 pm at St Edwards Catholic Church at 5303 River Rd. N. in Keizer, OR., private internment following. All are invited to share his Celebration of Life the same day beginning at 5:00 p.m. at the Keizer Elks Club, 4250 Cherry Ave. NE. Share photos, memories and online condolences, please visit Mike's memorial website at www.keizerchapel.com.

Donations in his memory are suggested to the OHSU Foundation in support of the Blood Brain Barrier program in Michael's name. We wish to thank Drs. Petrunin, Gordon and Pierce of Salem Cancer Institute; Drs. Girod and Shaw of Cascade ID, Dr. Neuwelt of the OHSU BBB; the nurses of SH Infusion and Wound Care, Home Health and Willamette Valley Hospice. Above all we thank the everyday confidence and care of Ron Palm DO of Willamette Health Partners and all the staff who so gently cared for him.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Statesman Journal on Jun. 26, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
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Larry Frederick

August 15, 2014

Mike was a great guy. We had many great games of racquetball at MSU and I was honored to be his best man.
Farwell Michael rest in peace and may the Lord welcome you

Mike Hagan

August 12, 2014

I was one year ahead of Mike at Fairfax
HS. I saw Mike blossom as a pitcher my Senior year. I played shortstop. We were 1-5 to start the year and ended up going 9-6 for the year and finally lost in the Regional semifinals. A lot of our success was due to Mike. Although I haven't seen Mike since 1963 I remember him well. Godspeed to the Dalponte family.

Todd Werdebaugh

July 4, 2014

So sorry to hear of your dad's passing. He was always so full of life and fun and loved his family very much and was always so proud of his daughters. You, your mom and sister will be in my prayers

Susan Hillyer

June 29, 2014

I have fond memories of staying the night with Kelli and your dad playing music, teasing us and ALWAYS talking softball with us... Memories I will always treasure. A daddy's love can last a lifetime in your heart. Rest in peace with Jesus until we can all be together again!

Dad (Mike), Mom (Betsy), Lisa & Kelli

Lisa Emerson

June 29, 2014

I miss you Dad. This past Friday we had your memorial mass, graveside service and celebration of life gathering at the Keizer Elk's in your honor. You were and are very loved by many and will be missed. Love, Lisa

June 28, 2014

I send my deepest sympathy. One of the best gifts someone can pass on to others is their wisdom. It sounds like Michael had true appreciation for life and taught others valuable lessons. It reminds me of a Scripture that honors the elderly: “Is not wisdom found among the aged, and does not understanding come with a long life?” (Job 12:12). May your family continue to cherish the beautiful moments spent with Michael.

The Long Family

June 26, 2014

You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Sue Bevens Ramsdell

June 26, 2014

Betsy,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. In peace and love,

Twilla Sasser

June 26, 2014

Praying comfort and peace in this time of loss. May God wrap His arms around you and your family.

Staff of Keizer Funeral Chapel

June 25, 2014

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.

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