Delbert L. Crafton

Delbert L. Crafton, 93, of West Burlington died September 19, 2026 at his home.

He was born February 22, 1933 in Birmingham, IA.  He served in the Army during the time of the Korean War.  He married Rita Ross on November 28, 1957 in Kirksville, MO.  He graduated from Northeast Missouri State Teachers College with a BS in Education and then a Masters and Specialists degree in Psychology.

He taught Industrial Arts and was a Drivers Education instructor in his earlier years. He was the Guidance Counselor at Horace Mann Middle, then James Madison Middle in the Burlington School System for 29 years. For 16 summers, he managed the West Burlington Swimming Pool. He retired from teaching in 1995.

Del loved sports and was often seen on football fields and basketball courts as a referee. He umpired girl's softball well into his 70's.

He is survived by his wife, Rita, of West Burlington; three daughters, Tammy (Brian) Ceccarelli, Karry Morris, Kristy (Larry) Gerling, and one son, Timm (Wan) Crafton; six grandchildren, Brandy, Travis, Daisy, Nico, Jing and Xin; and four great grandchildren, Ivy, Sig, Oly and Killian.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Duane and Veryl; and son-in-law, Brad Morris.

Private family burial will be at the Burlington Memorial Gardens at a later date.

Please continue to keep Mr. Crafton's family in your thoughts during this difficult time.

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