Frederick "Fred" L. Delp

Frederick L. Delp, born on April 29, 1943, in Michigan to Ella Lou Delp and Fred L. Delp, passed away peacefully on January 19, 2025. His life was a testament to his faith, his devotion to family, and his profound appreciation for the beauty of God's creation.

Fred graduated from West Virginia University before serving as an Intelligence Officer in the United States Air Force. Following his military service, he pursued his passion for law at West Virginia University College of Law, where he graduated in the top of his class of 1975. Over a distinguished 50-year career as a member of the West Virginia State Bar, Fred practiced law with unwavering integrity and skill. He found deep fulfillment in helping clients navigate complex legal challenges, always guided by a strong moral compass.

From a young age, Fred developed a love for the outdoors that shaped his life and brought him closer to God. As a teenager, he achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, exemplifying his adventurous spirit and dedication to excellence. His passion for exploration led him across the globe — hiking through Pakistan while stationed there during his military service and later trekking through Patagonia in Argentina and Chile at the age of 65. Fred often said he felt closest to God atop those mountains.

Fred shared this love of nature with his children and grandchildren, creating cherished memories on trails and adventures. He also found great peace at his beloved farm in East Lynn, where he delighted in nature's serenity. Weekends spent there caretaking for the grounds were made even more special by time with his best friend Larry Dickens and his friend Jimmy Napier, who was always ready to lend a hand with mechanical repairs.

An accomplished craftsman and builder, Fred had an eye for detail and an insistence that everything be just right. His talents extended beyond physical creations; he was also a gifted storyteller and writer. Fred penned humorous accounts of adventures with Steele Memorial Sunday School Class and wrote beautiful poems that reflected his thoughtful nature.

Fred valued lifelong friendships deeply, including his enduring bond with John Bowen, who remained one of his closest friends throughout the years.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Susan Pearl Delp, in 1984. He is survived by his devoted wife of 28 years, Vickie Simmons-Delp; his daughter Laura Delp Young (Allen Young); his son Tim Delp (Leigh Hodges); and three beloved grandchildren: Olivia Young, Mary Ella Young, and Christopher Young. He is also survived by his brother Charles Delp (Lori Delp) and niece Alexis Nicole Clark. Additionally, Fred is lovingly remembered by children through marriage: Shawn Simmons (Piper Simmons), Robbie Simmons (Cheryl Simmons), Christi Holley (Mark Holley), and grandchildren Olivia Simmons, Amelia Simmons, and Savannah Simmons.

Fred's legacy is one of kindness, devotion to family and profession, faith in God's plan, and an enduring love for life's adventures. Those who knew him will fondly remember his stories, laughter, and steadfast presence. May he rest in eternal peace surrounded by the beauty of God's creation that he so deeply cherished.

He will be missed beyond measure but forever held close in our hearts. "He'll always be my guy."

With love from Vickie and family.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2 PM on Saturday, January 25, 2025 at Beard Mortuary. The family will greet friends beforehand from 12:30 to 2 PM. Please leave an online condolence for Fred's family on his tribute wall.