Delevan Henry “Del” Timmerman, 68, of Strawberry Point, Iowa, passed away on Monday, May 18, 2026, at his home surrounded by family. Known for his hardworking nature, deep love for family and friends, and lifelong connection to the Strawberry Point community, Del leaves behind memories that stretch far beyond his years in construction and farming.
Born on December 15, 1957, in Manchester, Iowa, Del was the son of Willis Frederick and Clara Marie (Ahrens) Timmerman. He grew up in the Strawberry Point area and graduated from Starmont High School in 1976. Those who knew him from an early age often described him as someone who preferred hard work and being outdoors over sitting still. After high school, he began working alongside his father at Timmerman Construction while also farming and milking cows, building the strong work ethic that would define much of his life.
In 1992, Del officially took ownership of Timmerman Construction, continuing the family business with pride. Construction was never just a job to him. It was part of his identity and part of the way he stayed connected to the people in his community. Friends and neighbors regularly stopped by the shop just to visit, especially in the evenings, and Del was always happy to sit, talk, laugh, and catch up on life.
Del was previously married to Lisa Pettit, and together they welcomed three sons: Beau, Chase, and Lane. Later in life, he found lasting companionship with Darla (Parkinson) Kelchen, who remained his beloved partner and closest friend for 27 years. Together they built a life centered around family gatherings, grandchildren, friendships, and simple moments spent together at home.
Outside of work, Del enjoyed the things that made life feel uncomplicated and real. He loved mowing the lawn, caring for animals, playing cards, and hosting poker nights with friends. Music was also a big part of his life, especially Elvis Presley songs, which he enjoyed listening to and dancing to whenever he had the chance. One of the experiences he treasured most was taking part in the Freedom Flight with Auldi Adams, an honor that remained deeply meaningful to him.
What mattered most to Del was always the people around him. He loved having family nearby, checking in on neighbors, and spending time with his grandchildren whenever possible. He had a way of making ordinary conversations feel memorable, and many people who visited him over the years left feeling like they had known him forever.
Del is survived by his sons, Beau (Randi) Timmerman and Chase (Olivia) Timmerman, both of Strawberry Point, and Lane (Amanda) Timmerman of Albia; his longtime partner, Darla (Parkinson) Kelchen of Strawberry Point; bonus children Dusty (Carla) Kelchen of Mt. Vernon, Jessie Cooksley of Newhall, and Jennifer Poppe of Marion; 16 grandchildren, with one more on the way; siblings Rita Crawford of Des Moines, LeRoy (Anne) Timmerman of Pleasant Hill, Barbara (Doug) Hobbie of Zion, Illinois, and Rozella (Bill) Green of Strawberry Point; his godmother, Luella (Howard Boswell) Linderwell of Dothan, Alabama; along with many nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbors, and lifelong friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Willis and Clara Timmerman.
Delevan “Del” Timmerman will be remembered for his loyalty to family, his strong hands and steady work ethic, his love of music and laughter, and the welcoming presence he brought into the lives of so many people in Strawberry Point and beyond. His absence will be deeply felt by those who knew him best, but the stories, friendships, and memories he leaves behind will continue for generations.
