Delbert Stapley Mack

Delbert Stapley Mack was born on May 24, 1952, in Salt Lake City, Utah. He passed away peacefully next to his wife Rebecca in their Tucson, Arizona home. His family said goodbye to his Earthly Spirit on the day after Thanksgiving, November 28, 2025.

Delbert was the first child of Phyllis Stapley Mack and Reed Floyd Mack. Raised under the wide open skies of Arizona, Del was gifted with an inherent respect for God's creations. Spending his childhood years in Phoenix with his three younger siblings, he was shaped by the wild warmth of the Sonoran Desert—the rare beauty of its flora and fauna, the inspiration of brilliant sunrises and the tranquility of stunning sunsets.

He had a genuine curiosity and a sharp mind for learning about multidisciplinary topics. When his mother became weary of answering his multitudinous questions, she would tell Del, "Go look it up in the World Book [Encyclopedias]." Throughout his years, Del was continually learning independently. He had an appreciation of language and etymology which enriched his writing, documentation and observations. Many of his writings dealt with themes of spirituality, the natural world, and appreciation for beauty.

On June 27, 1979, Delbert married the love of his life, Rebecca Pack. Together they studied at Brigham Young University, where Delbert earned his bachelor's degree. Eventually settling in Tucson, Del and Becky built a marriage defined by partnership, devotion and learning. In their home, they welcomed tenants from diverse cultures: students from all over the world who were attending the University of Arizona. Openly sharing food and customs with new friends contributed to the types of precious, meaningful moments Del, Becky and their children valued most.

He was the proud father of two children, Sarah Louise Sheen and James Reed Mack. Del gifted Sarah and Jimmy with many Southwest adventures. Catching and keeping a variety of lizards, taking bike rides along the arroyo, and setting off bottle rockets are among his kids' fondest memories. Del also shared his love of competitive swimming and talent for guitar with his posterity. He had an exuberant nature when he was able to champion his kids in their endeavors.
Del contained multitudes. He had a fearful stubbornness that at times took him to challenging places of darkness. Yet he also had profound spiritual experiences that gave him a deeply rooted trust in God. For him, this knowledge re-framed everything in a brilliant light. A quote by George McDonald that brought him peace is, "[God] is nearer to every one of us than our nearest consciousness of self." This knowledge changed everything for Del. An original meaning of the word enthusiasm is "to be filled with the spirit of God." Del knew how to embody these principles in order to buoy up his spirit.

Being a grandfather brought Delbert deep joy and more tenderness. He warmly welcomed his daughter-in-law Megan Spiers Mack. Together, Del and Becky have adored their grandchildren—Eleanor, Holden, Dashel, and Ansel—each one a bright spark in their later years. He continued to foster in them a love of animals, day trips and grand adventures. His humor included recollections and impressions of phrases that tickled him over the years. Grandpa Del (Dude) left an imprint on his posterity that will continue to grow as they do.

A unique pastime that Del and Becky enjoyed together was scuba diving. In Cozumel, San Carlos, and Cabo they admired the rich contrast of desert meeting sea. Hawaii offered swims with manta rays and explorations of unique volcanic topography beneath the waves. Finally, the remote beauty of Fiji offered pristine soft corals and the warm, welcoming spirit of the South Pacific. This was a location that mirrored their own generosity of spirit. Like the deep blue Del so admired, he encouraged exploring beyond the surface, respecting the power of nature, and seeking beauty in unexpected depths.

Those who knew Delbert remember him as thoughtful, intuitive, peculiarly curious, and quietly generous—a man whose sincerity touched lives in subtle but lasting ways. He was a diplomatic landlord, and an attentive friend. He took time for the outliers and underdogs of society—regarding people from all walks of life as valuable souls. His life in Tucson was a place where he found and shared rare moments with his wife Becky. Together they created an oasis—cultivating beautiful grounds with special plants to enjoy with their dear friends and loved ones. Their relationship was rare, yet enduring—much like the night-blooming cereus cactus they mutually adored.

Delbert is survived by his wife Rebecca Pack Mack and his siblings: Coralie (Tom Crockett), David Mack (McCaye Christianson), and Michael (Kim Mack).

Delbert's memory will be cherished by his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His stories, his compassion, and his unwavering steadiness will be carried forward with gratitude and affection.

A Memorial Service will be held January 17, 2026, 11:00am at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints: 1540 E Linden Street, Tucson, AZ 85719. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Gospel Rescue Mission or Sister Jose Women's Center.