Del Robert Lien

We are heartbroken to share that Del Robert Lien of Flushing, passed away on September 7, 2025, just short of his 97th birthday. A private memorial service will be held at a later date.
Del was born on October 1, 1928, the son of Henry and Pearl (Hillestad) Lien. He lived a full and vibrant life. Del married Lila Wortz on April 29, 1949, and spent more than 65 years together when she preceded him in death on December 12, 2013. They raised four children. Del worked at Buick for 35 years. He was in his 50's when he decided to return to school to earn his associate's degree and also learn Norwegian.
Anyone who knew him could tell you he knew how to enjoy life. He loved to dance, lift weights (his weight room was as big as some houses), cook, play cards "any kind of cards", try his luck at the casino, and spend time with his grandchildren. His humor and generosity made people feel welcome wherever he went. Whether he was stirring a pot in the kitchen or shuffling a deck of cards, he made every moment memorable. Though he would never let you win at cards, just ask his daughters.
His grandkids will tell you he was a master spaghetti maker. His neighbors would tell you he was always willing to lend a hand, his yard was immaculate, and he mowed his lawn in dress pants. He was a gambler at heart; a tough competitor at the card table, but the slot machines usually had his number. He'd laugh about winning with the cards and losing to the slots, proving that for him, the fun was always in the game.
Del and Lila danced several times per week. Wherever they danced, all the women wanted to dance with Del, but he only had eyes for Lila. He was the wind beneath her wings.
Some may have described him as a stoic man, but his grandchildren will always remember the way he lit up when they walked into a room, that he was an excellent card partner, and someone that would swim in the Great Lakes in October if they asked.
Del is survived by his daughters, Krisann (Val Wagman) Lien-Wagman, Janice Morrow; grandchildren, Andrea Petrowski, Sabrina (Nicholas) Pietryga, Jessica (Brent) Pittenger, Jack (Laura) Morrow, Kristopher (Shelby) Lien, Holly Lien, Michael (Kendra) Lien; and great-grandchildren, Leo, Logan, Bo, Travis, Edward, Ellerie, and Liam. He was preceded in death by his two sons, Eric (Diane) Lien, Robert Lien; and his brother, Leonard Lien.
His family and friends will remember him not only for what he did, but for how he lived-fully, joyfully, and in the moment.