Delbert Laverne Bertsch

It is with great sadness that we announce that our dear, sweet father, Delbert Laverne Bertsch, 92, died peacefully in his sleep on December 10, 2025, while surrounded by his family. Delbert was born in McIntosh, South Dakota on September 12, 1933, to Jacob and Katherine Bertsch. He was the youngest of nine children. His entire family moved to Paul, Idaho in 1936.

In his high school years he ran track, played basketball and football, and was Paul High School President. Delbert was always a hard worker. He started working in the potato and beet fields as a teenager and continued taking assorted jobs with farmers throughout high school. He also worked at the movie theater, a job he loved, and had his own “moving business.” In 1951, Delbert started his lifelong career with the Union Pacific Railroad, first as a telegraph operator and then promoted to a train dispatcher in 1956. Delbert was lucky enough to be offered an early retirement in 1989, while he was Chief Train Dispatcher. He was always proud to work for UPRR and was a railroader through and through. Dad loved to fish, take family and friends boating, take vacations with his family and traveling to the Washington and Oregon coasts.

In 1057, Delbert married Lorraine Ferch and started their journey of love and happiness that resulted in 54 years of marriage. They had three children, Brent, Cyndie, and Shannon. Delbert always worried about their needs and wellbeing before his own.

After retirement, Delbert and Lorraine enjoyed nearly 13 years living in Yuma, Arizona during the winter months. They would return to their home in Pocatello for a month, and then would haul their fifth-wheel to Heise, Idaho for the summer. There they would play numerous rounds of golf each day. During their retirement years, Delbert and Lorraine made many wonderful friends that they kept in touch with for many years.

Delbert is survived by his daughters, Cyndie Meline and her husband Bob, Shannon Libby and her husband Harold. He leaves behind his three adored grandchildren, Nikki Meline and husband Ethan Ostrom, Parker and Alisha Libby. In addition, many nieces and nephews, including a very special nephew, Marlin Decker.

Delbert was preceded in death by his parents, Katherine and John Jacob Bertsch, by his wife, Lorraine and son Brent. He was also preceded in death by his eight siblings; Alvin Bertsch, Kilda Kundert, Alma Decker, Esther Stromire, Milbert Bertsch, Helen Haynes, Edna Hackman and Ruben Bertsch. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

The family would like to thank Grace Assisted Living Memory Care and One Source Hospice employees for their loving and compassionate care given to our father.

A private service will be held at a later date.

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