Joseph A. Delano

Joseph A. Delano, a beloved father, brother, and friend, passed away on November 2, 2025, in Independence, Kansas, at the age of 84. He was born January 2, 1941, in St. Johnsbury, Vermont, as the 6th of 9 boys to Harold and Mazelle Delano.

Joe proudly served his country, joining the U.S. Army on December 23, 1959, with one year of his term being stationed in Korea. He was awarded the Vietnam Veterans Medal, Medallion, and Certificate of Appreciation for his service during the Vietnam War.

After his military service, Joe married Roberta Garrison in 1963 in Muscatine, IA, and together they had two daughters, Tammy and Jody. They later divorced, and he and his daughters relocated to southeast Kansas, where he met and married the love of his life, Wanda Welch, on May 12, 1967. Together they welcomed Daryl, Sonya, and Shawn. Joe and Wanda built a life centered around family, living in Coffeyville and Tyro before making Independence their permanent home in 1976. They enjoyed 45 years together before Wanda preceded him in death in 2012.

During his childhood years in Portland, Maine, he could be found cliff diving at one of the beaches or playing baseball, which sparked his love for the Boston Red Sox. After marrying Wanda, Joe was introduced to her family's love of the outdoors. Whether fishing, hunting, camping, or simply enjoying time together, those moments became some of his most treasured memories. The proudest accomplishments of Joe's life were his children and grandchildren. He loved spending time with family and attending their sporting events, playing cards, and gifting Furbies to his grandkids. As a true enthusiast of CB radios, Joe was known on the airwaves as "Kanadian Honker."

Joe applied his mechanical skills and strong work ethic for many years at Emerson Electric, followed by Independence Municipal Airport, where he was well respected for his dedication and reliability. Those who knew Joe will remember him for his kind heart and generosity—always willing to lend a helping hand to others and never lacking for something to say.

Joe is survived by his sons, Daryl Delano (Lorri) of Hazen, AR; Shawn Delano of Independence, KS; daughters, Tammy Robinson of Bartlesville, OK; Jody Wright (Brian) of Cherryvale, KS; and Sonya Austin (James) of Monrovia, MD; brothers, Douglas Delano (Kitty) of Scarborough, ME, and Lawrence Delano. He is survived by 15 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren, who were his pride and joy. He is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Wanda; grandson, Christopher McCormick; and brothers, Tim, Robert, Raymond, Dennis, Leroy, and Jon Delano.

Visitation and a military service will be held in his honor on Saturday, November 8, 2025. The visitation will begin at 4 PM, followed by the service at 5 PM. Cremation has taken place, and a private inurnment will be held at a later date. Friends and family are invited to celebrate Joe's life, reflect on cherished memories, and pay their respects to this remarkable man who touched so many lives.

Memorial contributions will be made to the VFW Post 1186 as requested by the family. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.webbrodrickchapel.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Webb & Rodrick Chapel and Crematory.