Barbara was born on October 20, 1942 in Cape Girardeau, Missouri to Thomas Landrum Nelson Jr. and Delpha Irene (Scott) Nelson. She grew up in Middlesboro, Kentucky with her older brother Tom and her younger brother, Joe, with whom she maintained close relationships for her entire life. The family eventually moved to Illinois settling in Clarendon Hills. Barb graduated from Hinsdale Central High School in 1960.
In 1981 she married the love of her life, Joe Deldin and they enjoyed a wonderful 30 years together until his passing in 2011. Barb had a very successful career as a Production Coordinator at Jet Lithocolor in Downers Grove. On the weekends, Joe and Barb operated a pig roasting business called ‘Deldin Roasting’. They loved to cook and throw parties and their weekends providing this service for people were the highlight of their lives together. They were avid gardeners and Barb canned many vegetables and used her fresh garden food to enhance her wonderful cooking and hospitality. She also loved flowers and planted an abundance of beautiful blooms, especially petunias, every year. Barb and Joe enjoyed their condo at Bay Mariner in Indian Shores with their Florida friends where they coordinated the parties and events for the residents of the condo community. They video taped and photographed and documented these events and were renowned and loved for their leadership.
Barb was well known for her spunky disposition, her wit and intelligence. She loved her job in the printing industry and she enjoyed making people feel special by making custom photo cards and posters for birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, and other special events. She loved to play games and was an expert bridge player. She particularly enjoyed Yahtzee, scratch-off lottery tickets and was especially happy with a day at the casino.
After Joe’s passing, Barb was fortunate to find companionship for her last 9 years with Bob George. They enjoyed cruises and trips to Mexico and retired life together in Largo, Florida where Bob cared for her until her death.
Barb is survived by her children, Tari (John) Crema, Debbie (Keith) Sassenger, Jennifer (Pete) Grossi, Tom (Kristen) Deldin, Pam (Steve Solich) Deldin Patrick and Patricia (Steve Rich) Deldin; brother Joe (Evelyn) Nelson; and companion Robert George.
She is survived by 16 grandchildren: John (Marisa) Crema, Matt Crema, Christina (Billy) Khan, Michelle Crema, Nick Yetka, Jake (Maria) Yetka, Jimmy Baker, Amanda Grossi, Andrew Grossi, Tony (Esther) Deldin, Vicki Deldin, Michael (Miya) Patrick, Jason (Heidi) Patrick, Sarah (Corey) Wickman, Jacob Rich and Ben Rich.
She is survived by 10 great-grandchildren: Faith, Terese, Adam, Emilia, Gene, Grace, Keila, Caden, Chase and Preston. She is also survived by sisters-in-law Dee (the late Wayne) Pearson, and Kathy (the late Joe Pete) Sacchetti and brother-in-law John (the late Trudy) Deldin along with many nieces, nephews and friends. Barb was predeceased by her husband Joe, parents and brother, Tom.
In lieu of flowers, Barb has requested contributions be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Visitation will be Saturday, May 8th at Blake-Lamb Funeral Home, 5015 Lincoln Ave., Lisle, IL 60532 from 9am to noon; masks are required. Service will begin at noon followed by a procession to Clarendon Hills Cemetery where Barb will lay at rest next to her beloved Joe.
In consideration of the safety of all our guests and associates, Blake Lamb Home will adhere to the current gathering restrictions in the state of Illinois, which allows 50 or fewer guests at services. Proper social distancing must be practiced, and all guests will be required to wear face masks at all times. Thank you for your cooperation.
DONACIONES
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
v.1.8.18