Harold DeLaMater Jr.

HAROLD DELAMATER JR.

Cedar Rapids

Harold Rex DeLaMater Jr. died on Friday, April 3, 2015, after a year-long struggle with cancer. He was born May 7, 1931, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the son of Hazel Mulinex DeLaMater and Harold Rex DeLaMater. When Harold was 17, his mother died. He graduated from Wilson High School in Cedar Rapids.

A friend to all who knew him and a good neighbor, it was said, "He would do anything for anybody." With the talents of an artist and craftsman, Harold applied his design eye as a window dresser at the Syndicate in downtown Cedar Rapids and Davenport and at the Boston Store in Marion. Following the closings of these stores, he became a valuable addition to the staff at Barney's Paint and Paper where he specialized in framing and interior design. He finished his career years working at Klinger Paint.

He was involved in physical activities, jogging, biking, walking and roller skating, throughout his life. Roller skating was a life-long pursuit. He skated regularly with the Skate Country Club of Cedar Rapids, the Iowa Connection of the St. Louis Park, Minn., club at Newton and was a member of the National Roller Association. He skated competitively and earned medals in figures, solo and team dance divisions.

He was an avid reader. Among his many wide ranging interests, Harold enjoyed flower gardening, antiques and cars of all kinds. He had a special fondness for dogs, usually carrying treats for them in his pockets as he went for walks. He regularly attended the symphony and the follies.

Harold was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Darold DeLaMater.

He is survived by his aunt, Violette DeLaMater Kucera; nephews and nieces; and a large number of cousins in both the U.S. and Canada, to whom he was lovingly known as "Uncle Junior."

Visitation will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, April 9, at the Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home. A celebration of his life will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, April 10, at the Cedar Memorial Chapel of Memories followed by a reception.

Harold's family expresses gratitude and appreciation for the many competent and caring staff members at Mercy Medical Center, the Hall-Perrine Cancer Center, Hallmar Continuing Care and the Hospice of Mercy. Additional praise and gratitude is extended to his cousin, Joe Robinson, who provided the support and encouragement which eased and allowed Harold to enjoy his final year of life.

Memorials may be made in Harold's name at The Cedar Valley Humane Society, http://www.

cvhumane.org/donate/pet-memorial-donations/.

Please leave a message or tribute to Harold's family on the website, www.cedarmemorial.com under Obituaries.