Obituary of Delbert R. Keefauver

Mr. Delbert (Del) Keefauver was born on October 8, 1933, in Louisburg, Kansas to Harold and Myron Keefauver. His birth having occurred in a log cabin with the assistance of a harried country doctor, Del found when it came time to enlist, he had only receipt of goods exchanged, and no birth certificate!

A humble patriot, he proudly served in the US Air Force for 26 years, retiring as a Senior Master Sergeant. After tours in Korea and Vietnam as a C124, C130, and C141 loadmaster, he “retired” to a brilliant second career as a contractor. Beautiful examples of his hard work and creativity can be seen all over Tacoma. A man of principle, he also quietly volunteered for many years as a church usher, for Habitat for Humanity, and at the base thrift store.

Del was a true testament of a bygone era. Stoic, deeply pragmatic, and not one to suffer fools quietly, he was secretly gentle, thoroughly loyal, and generous with a full-throated laugh. Married to Barbara for 67 years, and father to three girls: Anita (Larry), Brenda (Skip), and Beverly (Gary). He was grandpa to six grandchildren: Melody (Ed), Elizabeth (Russell), Ben (Michele), Jennifer (Travis), Randy, and Chase (Linell). And great-grandpa to seven great-grandchildren: Wyatt, Garrett, Katie, Allie, Addie, Logan & Clara.

He was the family historian and no-nonsense leader. He kept family memories alive through hours spent behind his trusty video camera, grew excellent tomatoes, and played a merciless game of Aggravation. Although he would not have identified as such, he was a gifted artist, able to build or fix anything. He made elaborate birdhouses from his photographic memories of the buildings in the area he grew up in, wooden toys, checkerboards, furniture, and even peoples’ dream homes.

He will live on in the memory of the example he set for those who love him, in the Tacoma landscape, and in the hearts of generations of squirrels and ducks he lovingly kept fed, fat, and happy. Preceded in death by his parents; beloved daughter, Bev; and terrifying boon companion Peewee the cat, we know they have met him on the other side. A man of faith, we are comforted in knowing we will see him again, most likely holding his camcorder. We love you Del, dad, grandpa, great-grandpa...November 20, 2020

A viewing will be held at Edwards Memorial on December 2, 2020, from 11:00, am -4:00 pm. 

11020 S. Tacoma Way Lakewood, WA 98499

A Memorial Service will be held at a later date. 

Thank you for your prayers, stories, and well wishes.

The Family