Delton "Del" D. Miles

A family man with an honest soul, Delton Duane Miles leaves behind a life full of memories shared with his family and friends. He was a loving husband, a caring father, and a friend to everyone he met. We are deeply saddened to say our goodbyes to Delton, as we will miss him dearly. Delton started his life just before the decade of the twenties began. The year of 1919 had a lot to accomplish. This was the year in which the prohibition's beginnings became a reality, and day-light savings time helped make the days even longer! One could now make a phone call without an operator's help due to the rotary dial phone's invention. Women were then able to spread the news of Congress passing the 19th Amendment guaranteeing their right to vote. The United States Congress also established the Grand Canyon National Park, which marked one of the earliest environmental conservation movement successes. One may have discussed these historical events while waiting for their morning toast from the newest kitchen craze known as the pop-up toaster! Closer to home in Kalamazoo, Michigan, Ralph and Alberta Miles prepared for their son's birth. As Autumn made itself more pronounced and the holiday season was fast approaching, their lives forever changed on November 14, 1919. They welcomed Delton Duane into the world, never guessing he would continue to celebrate birthdays throughout an entire century! Delton's parents worked together to create a comfortable home for their family. His father worked at Upjohn, and his mother was a beautician and a florist. They encouraged a harmonious relationship amongst the children, and Delton appreciated his siblings. They shared many childhood memories growing up in the city of Kalamazoo. In his youth, he learned to play the violin giving him a lifetime appreciation for music. Delton received the typical education of the time, eventually graduating from high school with a diploma. Upon completing that milestone, he proudly served in the United States Navy during World War II for nearly two years. Eventually, Delton's heart was open to the idea of love. Trusting in blind faith, he agreed to the experience of a blind date. Never knowing what this circumstance might lead to, Delton found a path leading to the rest of his life. Lena Freeman quickly became the girl he would marry. The newlyweds settled into life together. Before long, their family grew with the addition of 4 children: Terry, Pam, Kathy, and Deb. The home was full of love. Delton was a wonderful and caring father who helped create an environment that encouraged strong bonds. Lena and Delton modeled kindness and focused their parenting on good values. His children respected his hard work and the need for rest. They often witnessed his need for a short nap after work and while Lena prepared dinner. When the children asked if he slept, he would always proclaim, "I was just resting my eyes!" Delton valued hard work. He followed in his father's footsteps taking a job at Upjohn. He enjoyed his work and the ability to make sure that his family was secure financially and otherwise. In addition to working at Upjohn, Delton farmed the land. He had several acres which he would plant and harvest each year. The land also allowed him to hunt, which he enjoyed very much. He liked to hunt pheasants. He spent many hours enjoying this pastime with friends and his hunting dogs for good company. With all the time Delton spent tending to the land for farming, he became very knowledgeable about tractor repairs. So, after he retired from Upjohn, he started a small tractor repair business. Over time, he earned a respected reputation and was known as the "John Deere Man." His good humor also helped with the friendships he held dear - not to mention his keen bowling skills. He and Lena participated in the bowling leagues at the old Vicksburg Bowling Alley. They got along well with everyone and enjoyed visiting with friends. Delton's greatest joy was the success and happiness of his family. He appreciated the simple things in life. Being in his company did not require more than merely being yourself, and this quality is just one of what made Delton a good man. He would often say, "No one is better than you, so never think they are." His advice came from the heart because he genuinely believed in the everyday goodness of others. We will miss Delton's signature little grin giving away his unique and sweet character. We will miss his willingness to be there for anyone who may have needed an ear or sage advice without judgment. The world is a better place because of Delton. He made quite an impact in over the hundred years he graced our presence. Now we have the memories to help keep his spirit alive in our hearts. We will never forget our time together in this life. Delton "Del" D. Miles of Vicksburg passed away on Wednesday, September 23, 2020 at the age of 100. Del is survived by his two daughters Pam (Jim) Wiessner of Vicksburg, Kathy (Les) Szakacs of Holland; six grandchildren: Jodi Wiessner, of Portage; Chris (Lorrie) Wiessner, of Scotts; Chad (Chris) Szakacs, of Commerce Twp; Todd (Tonya) Szakacs, of Holland; Mindi Boughton, of TN and Kevin French, of Vicksburg; nine great-grandchildren. He is also survived by son-in-law Larry French of Schoolcraft; many nieces, nephews. He is preceded in death by this wife Lena; son Terry and daughter Deb French; grandson-in-law, James Broughton. Del has been cremated. His ashes will be interred at North Fulton Cemetery at a later date. While at Del's webpage at www.mccowensecord.com please take time to sign his guestbook by lighting a candle and/or sharing a memory with the family. Those who wish may make contributions to the Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan. Del's family is being cared for by the McCowen & Secord Funeral Home, Rupert-Durham Chapel, 409 South Main, Vicksburg, MI 49097 (269-649-1697).