Delbert Laurence Moen

Memorial Service: https://vimeo.com/event/4681306

Tribute Video: https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/7CB3DBBR6WP3XFDR

Delbert (Del) Laurence Moen’s Tour of Duty ended peacefully on October 18th, 2024, at Bethany Retirement in Fargo, North Dakota.

He was born August 30th, 1925, to Martin and Clara (Ongstad) Moen in Heimdal, North Dakota. He was one of thirteen children. His siblings were Harry, Myrtle, Ben, J. Ernest, Margaret, Gladyce, Evelyn, Ruth, Roy, Florence, Arnold, and Leila. When Del was eleven, his mother passed away. He was lovingly raised by his father, and brothers and sisters. Del went on to live a long, storied life, passing away just ten months shy of his 100th birthday.

He attended school in Heimdal and graduated from high school in Seattle, Washington.

The day after he turned 18, he received his draft notice and immediately reported to duty. He was a brave and honorable “Navy Man” serving on the USS West Point. During his time in service he earned the following: Victory Medal, American Area Campaign Medal, European African Middle Eastern Area Campaign Medal, and the Asiatic Pacific Area Campaign Medal.

After service, he spent a short time in Seattle but returned to Fargo, where he joined Nabisco as a delivery driver and connoisseur of all the delicious treats Nabisco had to offer. He stayed with Nabisco until his retirement in 1987.

Del married the love of his life, Mercille (Hovland) in 1955. They were married 62 wonderful years until her passing in 2016. They were both deeply committed Christians and devoted members of First Lutheran Church in Fargo, where Del often volunteered on the dishwashing committee following funeral services. It was his way of respecting his friends and fellow congregants.

Del and his wife were also active in the Gilbert C. Grafton American Legion Post #2. After Del’s retirement, he became an avid walker, often stopping at the American Legion to visit. He always enjoyed being around other service men and women.

Del’s survivors include his daughter, Jacquelyn Behnke; his granddaughters, Mary (Travis) Chambers, and Susan (Steven) Mantegari; and his great-grandchildren, Claudia and John Chambers, and Sophia and Stefano Mantegari. He is also survived by many wonderful cousins, and nieces and nephews.

Del was loved by many and will be deeply missed. He was a kind man and never had a disparaging word to say about anyone. He was the best of the best. And we are all comforted to know that he now is at peace in heaven with his Lord and Savior and his beloved wife, Mercille.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the VA Home Based Primary Care or the charity of your choice.