Wayson, Delbert D.

Delbert D. Wayson, 78, of San Diego, Calif., formerly of Cedar Rapids, died of a heart attack Feb. 17, 2010, in El Rosario, Baja, Calif.

 Born July 2, 1931, in Urbana, Iowa, he never tired of celebrating along with the nation's birthday. He served four years in the U.S. Navy, starting in 1951. A job and more agreeable climate led him to San Diego, where he worked for Kelco, helping to develop the then new biogum industry. Retiring in 1989, he ultimately spent most of his time in Baja, a place he dearly loved.

 Baja couldn't have found a more enthusiastic ambassador than Delbert. He was most happy when helping others discover its allure. His friends found him to be a loyal, lovable “curmudgeon,” a source of unfiltered and therefore priceless honesty, and the curator of a multitude of stories from a life well lived.

 This native son of Iowa is survived by three children, Niels, Valerie and Julie; two grandsons, Nicholas and Trevor; two brothers, Dean and Billy; and a countless list of friends of all types and temperament that literally span the continent.

 A celebration of life will be held April 24 at Blessed Sacrament Church Hall, 4540 El Cerrito Dr., San Diego, CA 92115. Interment: July 2 at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery, San Diego, with full military honors. For further details contact Valerie Wayson, (619) 669-1106.

 Instead of flowers or monetary donations, consider Delbert's favorite charity at

 Sign the guest book at