Delia D. Garvison

Delia Delores Garvison March 18, 1932 – May 13, 2025 Delia Delores Garvison, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, neighbor, and friend, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family on May 13, 2025, at 9:08 a.m. She was born on March 18, 1932, at Saint Joseph Hospital in Mishawaka, Indiana. Delia was the devoted mother of seven children: Michael, Julie, Bob, Scott, Dave, Paul, and Chris, and one stepson, Geary. She was the proud grandmother of 12 grandchildren: Jesse, Jessica, Rickey, Lacey, Christopher, Cameron, Kalie, Rae, Nick, Jamie, Amen, and Nicole. She also cherished her nine great-grandchildren, each of whom brought joy and pride to her life. A lifelong athlete, Delia was an outstanding golfer and runner. She won five Senior Club Championships at Cheshire Hills Golf Course (1995, 1997, 1998, 1999, and 2004) and recorded two holes-in-one — one on hole #3 at Cheshire Hills in 2004, and another on hole #2 at Jeptha Lake Golf Course. In 2000, she won a Club Championship at Shamrock Hills Golf Course alongside her son Scott. Delia was also a fierce and successful runner. She competed in over 100 races, winning numerous first-place finishes and setting course records at the Borgess Run for the Health of It, the Kalamazoo Klassic, and the Plainwell Classic. Her dedication was unmatched — she even trained through harsh Michigan winters, inspiring her neighbors, who often called to check on her. Her running journey began during the Blizzard of ’78, when she set out to walk to town to escape the chaos of a house full of kids — and never stopped moving forward. Delia was a natural athlete, with a gift for anything she put her mind to. But more than her physical accomplishments, she was known for her heart. Affectionately known as Grandma Dee, she baked cookies and pies for neighborhood children and made sure every child felt loved and safe. She was especially drawn to those in need, always lending a hand or an ear, and was truly an angel in the community. Delia had a deep love for animals, especially Pit Bulls, who she cared for because they were often overlooked. She believed in second chances — for people and pets alike. She also treasured the friendship of her neighbors Heidi and Will, who became part of her extended family. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to them for their kindness and support. Delia was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Lee Garvison; grandchildren Shane Wood and Cody Garvison; and siblings Jerry Hull, Wava Huyser, Hanby Shively, Dorothy Holmes, and Evelyn Chapo. She is survived by her sister, Carol Shannon, who resides in Florida. A private celebration of Delia’s remarkable life will be held on Saturday, May 24th at 1:00 p.m. Delia was the heart and soul of her family. Her strength, warmth, and unwavering love leave a legacy that will live on forever. She was truly the best mom anyone could ask for.

Delia D. Garvison

March 18, 1932 - May 13, 2025