Neil Delaney

Neil J. Delaney, age 67 of Perham, passed away on Friday, April 11, 2025.

Neil James Delaney was born on December 17, 1957 at St. James Hospital in Perham to Joe and Carrie (Hendrickx) Delaney. He was the 9th of 14 children and grew up on the family farm near Perham.

He went to elementary school at St. Henry's Catholic School and graduated from Perham High School in 1976. As a child Neil played around the farm with his siblings and neighbors. He enjoyed skiing down the hills on the farm. He was a part of building elaborate snow forts and igloos, and tunnels in the haymow. He also did farm chores and field work.

Neil always enjoyed animals, nature, Allis Chalmers tractors, and old TV westerns. He collected old west and army toys and collectibles, coins, baseball cards and vintage items, especially toys. He built many military model airplanes and ships; he was quite artistic. He enjoyed snowmobiling with his brothers and deer hunting. Neil played men's league softball for the Perham Sports Center and the Cactus Cowboys in left field. He also played for the Perham Creamery.

Neil worked at Swift's, Crane Johnson, the potato farm, Tuffy's, Barrel O' Fun and Otter Tail Bean. He was a big fan of the Twins and Vikings.

Neil is survived by his siblings and in-laws Pat Peichel, Barb Schave, Peggy (Jim) Riepe, Ed (Sue) Delaney, Debbie (Dave) Nebosis, Bob Delaney, Kevin (Arlene) Delaney, Steve Delaney, Sue (Mike) Jones, Dianne (Mike Prow) Delaney, and Joe (Sharlene) Delaney; brother-in-law Art Sazama; numerous nieces and nephews; and Luke the cat. He was preceded in death by his parents Joe and Carrie; sister Carol Sazama; brother Paul Delaney; and in-laws Larry Schave, Carol Wogikoski, Diane Delaney, and LeRoy Peichel.

Neil is remembered as a quiet, kind, gentle and sentimental soul. His siblings appreciate how he cared for their parents allowing them to remain on the home place for many years.

Visitation will be 4:00-7:00 p.m. with a Memorial Service at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, April 21, 2025 at Schoeneberger Funeral & Cremation Service in Perham. A private family burial will take place at Gorman Lutheran Cemetery at a later date.

Schoeneberger Funeral & Cremation Service, Perham, MN (218) 346-5175 www.schoenebergerfh.com