Submitted by: Dan Rich

Delcia M. DeGroff

Jan. 24, 1934 - Nov. 20, 2004

South Bend Tribune 11/23/2004

Delcia M. DeGroff, age 70, of East Bowman Street, South Bend, passed away Saturday evening, November 20, 2004, in Ironwood Health & Rehabilitation Center. She was born on January 24, 1934, in Pulaski County to Charley and Dorothy (Imel) Artist.

On March 8, 1954, Delcia married Carroll D. DeGroff, and he survives. Also surviving are a sister, Opal Coleman of Rochester and numerous nieces and nephews. Delcia was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Francis and Cletus Artist.

She worked at WSBT Radio as a master control operator, at Robertson's Department Store, and at Copp Music Center. Her greatest passion was a love of dogs. Delcia was employed by Whispering Pines Dog Kennel as a groomer. She and two other ladies started the 4-H Dog Obedience Program in St. Joseph County and served as the group's leader for 15 years. Delcia was a charter and life member of ECHO Dog Training Club. She taught Dog Obedience to seniors at St. Patrick's County Park. She also trained Hearing Dogs for Midwest Assistance Dogs, Inc.Delcia was an enthusiastic Euchre player. Among the places she played Euchre were the Battell Center in Mishawaka and at Howard Park Senior Center in South Bend. She also enjoyed playing Scrabble at Barnes and Noble.

There will be no public services or visitation. Cremation has taken place. Memorial contributions may be given to Midwest Assistance Dogs, Inc.; to Pet Refuge of Mishawaka; or to the Humane Society of St. Joseph County, Inc. The DeGroff family is being served by Thallemer, Goethals & Wells Funeral Home, 503 West Third Street, Mishawaka.