Delbert "Del" Fend

Delbert Michael Fend, age 60, of Walker Michigan went home to his heavenly Father on Friday morning December 29th 2017.

Delbert was born on August 8, 1957, in Manistee, Michigan. He was raised in Freesoil, Michigan, and shortly after graduating from Central Michigan University, moved to Walker, Michigan, where he's been a resident for more than 35 years.

Del lived a life of devoted service to both his family and community. Del's devotion and love for his two daughters was evident in everything he did. He also took great pride in his 30-year career at the City of Walker Department of Public Works Department.

Del didn't get caught up in the materialist things of this world. Instead, he enjoyed the simple pleasures of life like picking wild roses for this loving wife Lisa, inviting neighbors and friends over to watch a game and enjoy a "cold one" in his pole barn, and appreciating the sun on his face while working in the yard or being at the beach.

Through his entire life Del enjoyed playing and watching sports. Del was an avid Detroit Tigers and MSU fan, and was a MHSAA referee for basketball and volleyball for over 30 years. As a young man growing up he loved playing baseball and basketball. Raised on a farm, Del had a hard work-ethic and a passion for gardening and generously shared the fruits of his labor with friends and family. His kindness and generosity will be missed by so many.

Del is survived by his wife, Lisa Fend; his daughters, Rachel and Courtney Fend; step-son Austin Walker; father Albert "Sonny" Fend; sister Janell (Tom) Brickley; sister-in-law Kathy Fend; and nephews and nieces: Derek Fend, Dana (Malcolm) Martin, Andrea (Chase) Walters, and Lauren Brickley.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Bernadine Fend, and his brother, Rory Fend. We rejoice knowing that Del is now in the loving arms of our Savior Jesus Christ, and is once again playing catch with his greatly-missed brother with a proud mother looking on.

Visitation will be held at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home at 2120 Lake Michigan Drive NW, Grand Rapids MI 49504. Visitation hours will be Wednesday, January 3 from 1 to 3 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, January 4th, at St. Pius X Catholic Church at 3937 Wilson Avenue with Reverend Philip A. Shangraw residing. Family will welcome visitors beginning at 10:30 a.m. with mass starting at 11:30 a.m. Luncheon will be served immediately after the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations to your favorite charity can be made in Del's memory.