Delbert Rockwell

WESLACO - Delbert Rockwell, 87, passed away Monday, September 15, 2014 in Weslaco, TX.
Delbert received his BS in Chemistry from Wilmington, OH College. He was preceded in death by his parents Dr. and Mrs. George Rockwell of Perintown, OH, his beloved wife of 58 years, Thelma Ross and eldest son Michael. He is survived by his sister Dr. Evelyn Pauly, daughter Valerie of Austin, sons Tracy of Dallas and Brian of St. Jacob, IL. Grandchildren include Marissa, Jessica, Truman, Hart, Trey, Olivia, Gillian, Greyson and great granddaughter Thalia.

Delbert served in the United States Navy, finishing basic training as World War II ended. He worked as a Chemist for City of Weslaco and the Agricultural Extension Service. Independently, he was a farmer, ag pilot, land developer, builder and landlord.

Delbert's passion was flying, he owned or was partners in 13 separate private planes over his lifetime. Other hobbies included travel, sailing, scuba diving, chess, debate, citrus farming, ballroom dance, motorcycle and bicycle riding. Memberships included Elk’s Club of Weslaco, Valley Agricultural Association, and the Laguna Madre Yacht Club.

Delbert and Thelma Rockwell moved to Weslaco in 1949. They purchased their farm, from his mother Ruby. He owned and farmed collectively 1 to 200 acres, mostly cotton, grain, seed corn and sorghum.

Delbert remained an explorer and adventurer all of his life, exploring the U.S. Mexico and South America in small aircraft. He traveled throughout the world and sailed the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean extensively. He loved talking with people, was generous with others, even while being depression era frugal himself, and treated his friends and family honestly and deeply cared for them. He remained a successful entrepreneur until his retirement at 84 years.
The family wishes to thank the staff of John Knox Village and his dedicated friends, for their support and caring during his illness.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Alzheimer's Research. www.curealz.org/who-we-remember/r.

Viewing will be Friday, September 19, 2014 at McCaleb Funeral Home in Weslaco. A Memorial Services will be held on September 20, 2014, 11 AM at McCaleb Funeral Home in Weslaco with Interment to follow at Mont Meta Memorial Park in San Benito, at 3:30 PM.