Delila Jeanette Roberts

Daughter of Clifford and Violet Peterson (Ruppert), she grew up on the family farm near Huxley with her brother, LeRoy and sister, Diane. She was married to Theodore Roberts and they were blessed with nine children. Her love and care as a mother will forever be cherished.

Delila was involved in the Huxley community throughout her life. She was a First Responder with the Huxley Fire Department for 18 years and a founding Board Member of the Huxley Historical Society serving in that organization for over 17 years. Delila was actively involved in planning the Huxley High School alumni class reunions and was honored as the Grand Marshall of the Huxley PrairieFest parade in 2022.

After serving as a full time mother, Delila worked as a Ballard school cook, at the Huxley Casey’s General Store and was the Director of the Huxley Senior Center for a time. She ended with a 17 year career at Sevde Transfer and Storage in Ames.

A woman of great faith, Delila was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Elkhart for over 60 years. She enjoyed participating in parish events, attending Mass and serving in many other church related roles. Delila also found God's beauty in nature, especially enjoying the birds that would visit her home on Highway 210.

Most importantly, Delila loved her large family beyond measure. Her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and close relatives have cherished memories of holidays spent at her house. Christmas was Delila’s favorite holiday. Christmas music was played constantly starting after Thanksgiving with many songs being sang by Elvis. Other family activities included making kumla in the Norwegian tradition, her cheering at Ballard sporting events no matter the weather, and Thanksgiving at the Shelter House. These are just a few of the things that made Delila smile and in turn, her smile lit up many lives.

Delila is survived by her nine children: Jolene, Dan (Kelli), John, TJ, Susan (Steve), Lucy (Lee) Andy (Samantha), Charlie and Shane; 19 grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; sister Diane Cronk (Leroy); and many dear relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Clifford and Violet, and brother LeRoy.

Delila experienced several health challenges throughout her adult life but they never took away her love and affection for her family and friends, especially the littlest ones. She will be missed dearly.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, September 15th from 4-6pm. Prayer and reflection to follow until 7pm.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, September 16th at 11am with lunch following.

All services will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 460 NW Washington Ave. Elkhart, IA 50073

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary's Catholic Church or the Huxley Historical Society in memory of Delila.