Longen, Dellavon (Carlson) Del, age 89, of Minneapolis and recently St. Paul passed away on May 22nd. Preceded in death by her father, Harley Carlson; mother, Avonne O'Rourke; stepfather, Donald O'Rourke; sister, Geraldine Engel; and many brothers- and sisters-in-law. Survived by her husband of 70 years, Paul; sons, Douglas (Christina) and Andrew (Krista O'Malley); daughter, Jennifer (Ral) Williams; granddaughters, Kathryne (Brandon) Mutschler and Rebecca; great grandchildren, Lorelei and Soren; and a great many treasured nieces and nephews. Del was born in Minneapolis and raised on Milwaukee Avenue where she met and fell in love with Paul. While waiting for her own children to arrive, she found great joy being the day-care provider to many nieces and nephews. Once her own children were school-aged, she spent the next 30+ years as lunch lady extraordinaire to thousands, first at St. Albert's and then with Minneapolis Public Schools. Regardless of the rules, never was there a child (or school employee for that matter) going hungry on her watch. Even decades later, her grade school students would let her know that she was always remembered and adored. She loved to sew and bestowed her handmade creations from costumes to bridesmaid dresses upon fortunate family members and loved ones alike. She was also an excellent baker. The best and most revered Christmas gift for her children was her decorated tins or Tupperware of perfect sugar cookies that made her children the envy of all who tasted them. Del liked to stay active and was rarely idle. She was quite a bowler in her day and played volleyball until the age of 83. While her children were growing up, she enjoyed bike riding down River Road each summer evening after the dishes were done with all the neighborhood kids in "single file, please" behind her. She was a lover of all Minnesota sports, and WCCO was always tuned in on Twins game days. A season ticket holder since 1971, she was a lifelong supporter of the Guthrie Theater. Del was a clever and witty companion with a quick laugh, a mischievous twinkle in her eyes, and a beautiful smile. She was generous and humble and will always be remembered for her service and putting others first. Funeral service will be at The Church of St. Albert the Great in Minneapolis on Friday, June 14th at 11am with visitation at 10am and a luncheon to follow the service. Interment at Fort Snelling National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials requested to Camp Tamarack 1783 Iglehart Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55104.

Published on May 26, 2024