Rev. David G. Delzell

Rev. David G. Delzell

August 7, 2016

Rev. David G. Delzell, a Roman Catholic priest for 66 years, and resident of Lewis Lake, Uniondale died on August 7, 2016. He had recently celebrated his 92 birthday on August 4. The son of David and Margaret Delzell, he was born and raised in East Trenton, NJ and resided for most of his life in that state.

As a youngster, he aspired to enter the priesthood. He attended St. Charles Minor Seminary, Maryland, in 1942, graduating from there on D-Day June 6,1944. He continued his education in Immaculate Conception Seminary, Darlington N.J., and was ordained to the Roman Catholic Priesthood June 3,1950.

Father Delzell's pastoral duties included assignments at St. Edwards , Milford, N.J.; Our Lady of Mt. Virgin, Middlesex, N.J.; Sacred Heart, Riverton, N.J.; St. Cecelia's, Iselin, N.J., Sacred Heart, Bay Head, NJ; and finally as pastor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Highlands for 26 years until retirement.

Father's excellent administration skills while at Our Lady of Perpetual Help were clearly demonstrated. He liquidated a large parish debt, renovated the parish school, and served as principal for 2 years.

Upon retirement, Father continued to serve God's work in this area, visiting nursing homes, area hospitals, homes of the sick and elderly, and celebrating weekly mass at the Forest City Nursing Home.

Father delighted in the laughter of children, his 3 shepherds, and singing. He was known as "the singing priest", and often shared his talented, robust tenor voice. He performed locally, and was a regular in the Scranton Diocese "Caper" productions.

Father Delzell was a fourth degree Knight in the George Washington Assembly in Somerville, NJ. Council #2544.

In 2006, the community saw fit to honor him for his dedication and service to his priestly works by awarding him as Forest City Area Distinguished Citizen.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be Thursday at 10:00 am in St. Joseph's Church, 741 Delaware Street, Forest City, PA. Viewing will be Wednesday from 4-7pm and Thursday from 9:00 am until Mass time in the church. Interment will take place in St. Mary's Cemetery, Trenton, NJ.

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