SPARTA - Delvan H. Horstman, 86 of Sparta, WI died on December 4, 2024 in his home surrounded by his loved ones. He was born on March 3, 1938 to Elder and Elsie (Niedfeldt) Horstman. He grew up on the family farm outside of Mindoro WI. Del graduated from Mindoro High School in 1956.
On October 21, 1961 he married Elaine Haugstad and they had 3 daughters, Debra Gundersen of Lacrosse, WI, Cynthia Hanson of Westby WI, and Lisa Kleist (James) of Houston MN. His working years consisted of farming, milk hauling, and driving Semi. In 1997 Del sold his last milk route, purchased a Red Kenworth Semi truck he called Big Red, and went over the road with his wife Lany. Del eventually retired and sold Big Red. After retiring, Del embarked on a new adventure and began driving bus for the Sparta School District. After his wife’s death, Del became reacquainted with an old friend, Janice Erdman, and they have spent the last 11 years together.
He was preceded in death by parents Eldor and Elsie (Niedfeldt), wife Lany, grandson
Micheal Gunderson, brothers Verdell and Wally, sisters: Mildred Zeeman, Elaine Garves, Delores Fisher and Doris Reamer, brother-in -laws Harold Zeeman, Bob Garves, and Dallas Wagner, and all of Elaine’s sisters and brother-in laws have already passed.
He is survived by Janice Erdman and family, daughters Debra Gundersen, Cynthia Hanson, and Lisa (James) Kleist, Grandchildren: Jenna Gunderson, Matt Gunderson, Katie Hanson, Carrie (Clay) Brilowski, Cameron (Cara) Kleist, and Jordan Kleist, Great Grandchildren: Riley Gunderson, Lorena Brilowski, and Ava Kleist, Brother Glen (Judy), Sister Arlene Wegner, Sister-in-law Helen Horstman, and many more family and friends.
The family would like to express a sincere thank you to the Gundersen Hospice program for their excellent care, making it possible to honor Del’s wish to remain in his home.
A Memorial Service will be held at 11 am, Saturday, December 14, 2024 at the Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation with Chaplin Priscilla Hemmersbach officiating.
There will be a visitation held from 10 am until 11 am at the funeral home. Urn committal will immediately follow the services at Burns Cemetery. Lunch to be provided at the funeral home. For online condolences, please visit www.schanhoferth.com.
Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with arrangements.
Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation
