John Richard Delinski, 82, of Rio, West Virginia, passed away Oct. 19, 2024, at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital, and wife, Donna Lee Delinski, 84, of Rio, West Virginia, passed away Oct. 18, 2024, at Winchester Medical Center.
Donna was born August 31, 1940, in Charles County, MD and spent most of her younger years in Fort Valley, VA. For the last 24 years, she was married to John & resided in Rio, WV. Donna had an extraordinary gift for music—her beautiful piano playing and powerful voice filled hearts with joy. Her love for animals, especially cats, was well known, and her nurturing spirit touched everyone who crossed her path. She and her beloved John were inseparable and it’s clear that his world would never have been complete without her. As a true partner in life, her love for John was unmatched, a bond that will forever be cherished.
Donna was predeceased by her parents Donald and Pearl Ritenour, late husband James Powell, and daughter Jane Powell Sterrett. She is survived by her daughter Sherry Powell Lanzino (Marty) and grandson Nathan Lanzino.
John, lovingly known as “Dicky” or “Pappy”, was born May 4, 1942, in Washington D.C. He was a lover of nature and spent a lot of his time hunting, camping, and enjoying the great outdoors. He had a special bond with his dog Beau, and a deep love for his pipe, his Pepsi, and his guitar. Above all, John cherished his wife, Donna. Their love was the foundation of their lives, and it’s impossible to imagine one without the other. His wisdom will forever be remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing him.
John was predeceased by his parents John F & Margaret Delinski, his sister Doris Delinski, and his nephew John Swann. He is survived by his daughter Dianna Brown, grandchildren Casey Bergey and Joshua Pittington (Colleen), great grandchildren (Colton, Liam, Cade, & Effie), nephew Robert “Butch” Swann (Judie), and his lifelong friend Fred Weekley.
John and Donna’s bond was beautiful, their hearts were full, and their legacy will live on in the countless memories they gave us. They will be deeply missed by their family, friends, and all who knew them. As we mourn their passing, we find comfort in knowing that they are together, free from suffering, and surrounded by the peace they so richly deserve.
A funeral service will be held on Friday November 1, 2024, at 11:00 am at Sperry’s Run Community Church, 3056 Sperry’s Run Road, Rio, WV 26755. A graveside service and burial will be held the same day at 3:00 pm at Dry Run Cemetery, 8398 Fort Valley Road, Fort Valley, VA 22652
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Doe Eyes Animal Sanctuary & Rescue who so graciously helped with Donna’s beloved cats, 2605 Hoy Road, Augusta, WV 26704 or to the Humane Society of Shenandoah County, P.O. Box 173, Woodstock, VA 22664
https://doeeyesrescue.org/donate
Online condolences may be left at valleyfs.com
Arrangements by Heishman Funeral Home Inc., Valley Funeral Service Branch, Edinburg.
