Delbert Rawlins

1939 - 2018

Delbert Von Rawlins
1939 - 0218
Delbert Von Rawlins, age 79, passed away peacefully at home on Sept 7th 2018, surrounded by love and family. Del fought the good fight for 5 yrs but finally surrendered to the Leukemia.
Del was born in Pocatello Idaho on April 13th 1939 to Lawrence and Edith Rawlins. He was the 1st born of what would become a beautiful family with 5 kids. He never grew tired of talking about his childhood. Holidays when the family got together with beloved grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins were among his most repeated. Sometimes it was stories of mischief with school chums, or maybe hunting, boxing or skiing, but his favorite had to be going to the Indian reservation to ride the saddle bronc's and the bulls, which led to his riding in the rodeos. His siblings who he loved very much, but were forced at times to be recipients of his antics are Carolyn Winn (Richard), Larry Rawlins (Patricia),JeDeanne Thomas, and Michelle Lott (Brent)
Del graduated with honors from the San Francisco College of Mortuary Science which took him back to Pocatello where he interned at Mannings Mortuary. During the earlier years he was married to Marjorie Forrest, also of Pocatello. They had 2 beautiful daughters, Cheryl Hale, which precedes him in death and Kelli Nelson (Christian). Del stayed in the Mortuary business for 17 yrs until at which time he boldly took a leap of faith becoming an insurance agent, which he continued to do until retiring with American National in 2013. During these years Del's family grew substantially. Now married to Linda Adkins of Pocatello, 5 more wonderful children became a part of Del's heart; James Rawlins, Camille Rawlins, Lori Williams (Darin), Jason Rawlins and Sheree Chaffin (Brandon).
In 1988 Del married TJ Bulson of Boise, and again his heart willingly grew to include her 5 children; Krista Baird (Carl), Michael McLean (Lindsey), Garry McLean, Spencer McLean (Leah), and Joe McLean (Amber) . Now at an even dozen with 6 boys and 6 girls, it didn't take long and he had 36 grand children and 15 great grand children to love with more still coming.
To their marriage Del brought his love of horses, hunting, camping and his genuine love of people, but most importantly he brought his love of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Del served in many capacities in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day saints. Scout Master, Bishopric Counselor, High Councilman, The public affairs director, temple worker for 8 years, stake mission President, but his favorite had to be being the Branch President of "his" singles ward.
When Del retired from Insurance in 2013 he re-sat to get his license reinstated to be a funeral director and embalmer. After more than a 30 year hiatus, he passed and began working for Sean Moorhouse and Mike Madson at Bella Vida Mortuary. Del loved being in the work again, serving and helping people. Sadly however, it wasn't long after that his health problems began. The next 5 years were difficult ones, but Del tried to be an asset to the mortuary, desiring to do his best for the men he had grown to love so much, including his apprentice Ben Madsen. Eventually in late 2017 his Leukemia became acute, and he could no longer work, but the bonds of pure love and friendship he had made there, never wavered.
A viewing will be held Tues Sept 11th from 7 to 8:30pm at Bella Vida Mortuary 9661 W. Chinden Blvd. and again prior to the Services at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints at 1111 S. Cole Rd. from 9 to 9:45 am. With the services commencing at 10 am.
The family wishes to express our deepest appreciation to Bella Vida Mortuary and ACHS Hospice for all their kindness, compassion and professionalism. And to our PBitteroot Ward family for the love and compassionate service you have rendered to Del throughout these hard times, we love you.