Del W. Cumley

Del W. Cumley of Missoula, Montana, passed away peacefully at his home Tuesday, November 26th, 2013. Born in 1927 at the family homestead near Rye Creek, Del was raised in Darby, Montana by Arthur and Louise Cumley. He was the middle of five siblings. Del served in the Army Air Corp from 1945-1948 in North Africa, then returned to Montana to assist the Forest Service as a smokejumper. He served as a staff sergeant in the Air Force beginning in 1951 and completed his military career in 1953.

During Del's Army career, he met Genevieve Pilato in Algiers, Algeria and they wed in Paris, France in 1952. They were married for 45 years. After Genevieve's passing, he re-married four years later to Jo Krieg.

In 1957, Del began his career as a chemist at the pulp mill in Frenchtown where he rose to the position of Production Manager. He happily retired early at age 55 in 1982.

Del enjoyed his early retirement by spending his time delving into his two favorite activities, prospecting and fishing. He pursued fly-fishing in Montana to deep-sea fishing in St. Thomas. He inherited his interest in prospecting from his father and passed down his fascination to children and grandchildren.

Del is survived by his loving wife Jo, his devoted children Ken Cumley and his wife, Thin, of Helena, Shirley Edwards of Missoula, plus Jim Cumley and his wife, Billie, of Kalispell. He had six admiring grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

His love of animals was absolute. Del travelled across the state to rescue a disadvantaged canine, who then became his constant companion. Lady will miss him. Del also devoutly fed and watched the birds from his backyard.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Humane Society of Western Montana or Partners in Home Care (Hospice). His family is deeply grateful to the services of Hospice Home Care.

At Del's request, there will be no funeral services. Cremation has taken place and a private family memorial will follow at a later date. Sunset Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements. Condolences to the family may be sent to www.missoulafuneralhomes.com


Read Del Cumley's Obituary and Guestbook on www.missoulafuneralhomes.com.