Delbert Joseph DesChane, age 86, passed away on March 2, 2026 in Richland, WA with his family by his side.

The youngest son of Francis Joseph DesChane and Minnie Marto DesChane, Delbert was born on May 10, 1939, in Greenbay, Wisconsin. Delbert moved with his family to Portland, OR in 1948 and then settled in Richland, WA in 1949.

Delbert graduated from Columbia (Richland) High School in 1957. It was in high school that Delbert met the love of his life, Shirley Coye. He often commented that it was the pedal pushers and quarter loafers that sealed the deal for his instant love for his beloved wife. The two were married on May 16, 1959, at Christ the King Church by Father Sweeney, and shared a wonderful 66 years of marriage filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.

Delbert began his career at Hanford in February 1959 as a mail carrier with General Electric. He was very proud that he still owned the stock he bought during this time. Delbert always had a passion for all things mechanical, electrical, and technical. He could fix anything, and often did, for family and friends. This passion led to his lifelong career where he started as a Hot Cell Technician at the Post Irradiated Testing Laboratory (PITL) and concluded as the Manager of the same laboratory. Delbert retired in 1995. He loved his life long work in research and development for the advancement of nuclear technology for the nation.

Delbert really enjoyed spending time outdoors with family and friends. He particularly liked; salmon fishing… often telling stories about “the big one that got away”, hunting…where he proudly tagged a large six-point bull, and water skiing on the Columbia River and lakes throughout the Pacific Northwest….even though he never claimed to be much of a swimmer.

Always up for a debate, Delbert will be remembered for his sharp wit, stories, and the unyielding care he showed his friends and family. He will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him. His legacy of hard work, devotion to family, and love for the outdoors will live on in the many lives he touched.

Delbert is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley; his children, Peggy (Stan) Scott, David (Jill) DesChane, and Kathy (Brian) Keelean; his grandchildren, Jared, Tanner, Aubrey, David Jr. (DJ), Tyler, Derek, Ashlen, and Alec; and 16 great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held March 28, 2026 at 1:00 pm at the Einan’s at Sunset Chapel: 915 Bypass Hwy, Richland, WA, 99352. A graveside service will follow starting at 2:00 pm at Resthaven cemetery: 700 Williams Boulevard Richland, WA, 99354.