Delbert “Dell” Sailer, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on November 12, 2023. Born into a large and loving family as one of twelve children to George and Martha Sailer, Dell grew up on a farm in Hazen, North Dakota. Preceded in death by six brothers; Walter, Lawrence, Gerhardt, Arnold, Martin, and Gerald, sister Leila (Simpson) and two infant sisters. He is survived by sisters Velma (Wylie), Veona (Jorgensen), and brothers Vernon and Roland.
Dell’s journey led him from the fields of North Dakota to the halls of higher education, where his passion for theology, philosophy and ministry blossomed. It was in Rapid City that he met the love of his life, Shari (Wickard), They embarked on a journey of love and shared commitment that would be the cornerstone of his life.
A devoted ELCA Lutheran minister, Dell began his career serving his first congregation at Faith Lutheran Church in Cuba City, WI, from 1970-1978. His ministry spanned several decades, with tenures at Norway Lutheran Church in Wind Lake, WI (1978-1993), Grace Lutheran Church in Thiensville, WI (1993-2008), and later, his work continued at Vasa Lutheran Church and Stillwater, MN after his retirement in 2011. His final years were spent as a parishioner at Galilee Lutheran in Roseville, MN.
Dell was a man of profound faith, intelligence, and humor. His commitment to social justice was unwavering, marked by progressive views that guided his ministry and personal life. He was an advocate for all, celebrating love in its many forms. This included officiating the marriage of his son David to his partner Paul Haugland, marrying his son Jon and his wife Bobbie Passe in a shared service at St. Felix Church in Wabasha and baptizing all of his grandchildren.
Known for his dramatic flair, Dell brought biblical stories to life, engaging congregants with character enactments and puppetry, making every sermon a memorable experience. His children’s sermons, often featuring an array of puppets, including an old grouchy man and Martin Luther himself, captivated young minds, infusing lessons with joy and wonder.
Dell’s legacy lives on through his wife Shari, foster son Duane Fleming, and his sons David and Jonathan, their spouses Paul and Bobbie, and his cherished grandchildren Ethan, Eli, Olivia, William, and Oscar, who knew him affectionately as Bucka and Cuckoo Grandpa.
His big personality, humor, sense of justice, fierce intellect, and capacity for love and forgiveness left an indelible mark on all who knew him.
All obituary information has been taken from the funeral home, newspaper or other online resource.
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