August “Gus” Delisi, Jr.
January 31, 1931 – February 8, 2025
Gus passed away peacefully on February 8, 2025. He had a wonderful 94 years, which includes over 65 years with his loving wife, Marlene Delisi (Whitcomb). They were married on September 10, 1955, in Lincoln, Nebraska.
Gus grew up on the family farm in Lincoln, Nebraska. He decided to enlist in the US Army with a good friend. However, his mother asked the Draft Board for a deferment since they already had one son, Sam over in Korea, and needed Gus’s help on the farm. Though the deferment was granted, Gus was insistent he keep his commitment to his friend. Both entered the Korean war together, and didn’t see each again until they boarded the plane for home when their term was up.
After his return, he used the GI Bill college benefit and received a business degree from the University of Nebraska. After graduation, he accepted a sales position with The General Foods company and moved his growing family to Omaha in 1960. The family eventually grew to 6. Gus continued on with his 35 year food career working for Omaha Food Brokerage, R.S. Prewitt Co., and Advantage Sales in Des Moines, IA.
The Catholic faith and education was important to Marlene and Gus. All the kids went to catholic grade schools and high schools. Story was told that one year when all 6 were in St. James School, the Pastor called Marlene and Gus for a meeting to discuss increased tithing. They brought all the bills, and Gus’s paychecks totaled up and told the Pastor, he could have whatever is left. After the Pastor reviewed the numbers, it was apparent, no more discussion was needed. Our parents sacrificed a lot to ensure we got a good education.
Gus really loved the food industry where he made many friends. He eventually retired and came back to Omaha to be closer to his kids and grandkids. Gus helped out with serving lunches at St. Margaret Mary’s School. He retired his golfing activity and pursued to practice his long time hobby, playing poker at the Horseshoe casino. He continued playing and winning 6 days before he passed.
A life well lived and enjoyed. Gus will eternally rest next to Marlene, where, per their request, their headstone reads: “ had a great time getting here.”
Gus was preceded in death by his wife, Marlene; parents, August Sr. and Rose; sister, Rosemarie Schlegel; brothers: Sam, John, Jim and Richard.
He is survived by his children: Marcy (Paul) Wilwerding, Mark ( Michelle ) Delisi, Toni ( Kevin ) Stirling, Don Delisi, Bill Delisi, and Ann ( Todd ) Milbrandt; 9 grandchildren, and 7 great-grandchildren; brother, Robert; sister-in-law, Judy; brother-in-law, Gordy (Carol).
Gus was US Army Korean Veteran.
FUNERAL SERVICE: Monday February 17, 2025, 12:00PM with VISITATION at 11:00AM, at West Center Chapel, 7805 West Center Road, Omaha.
PRIVATE INTERMENT: Resurrection Cemetery at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Roncalli High School
To view a live Broadcast of the service, please visit www.heafeyheafey.com and click on the “Live Cast” button at the top of the home page.
Heafey-Hoffmann-Dworak-Cutler, West Center Chapel, 7805 West Center Road, Omaha, Ne 68124. (402)-391-3900. www.heafeyheafey.com
11 Comments
I was so lucky to have Uncle Gus in my life. He and Aunt Marlene always made me feel special and family gatherings with the Delisi family were the absolute best!
So sorry for your loss you all are in my thoughts and. Prayers ❤️
Marcy, so sorry for the loss of your dad. Keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers. Bill and Denise Spelic
Gus brought a wonderful aspect to the Whitcomb family. My mother loved him dearly.
I worked with Gus (and Marlene) in his Prewitt and Advantage days. They were both such upbeat and positive people. He usually had a joke for me, and always a smile. Great memories! Prayers for comfort to the family.
RIP Gus!
To all the DeLisi family, please know I’m thinking about you and sending prayers and condolences. Your dad, Gus, was quite a character… only to be matched by his beloved Marlene. I pray for their heart and souls knowing there are grateful to be together once again. Hugs and love sent, Nancy
Mark and Toni, so very sorry for your loss.
Our prayers are with your family at the loss of your Father.May God give you strength in the days ahead. May he rest peacefully with the Lord.
I was so lucky to get to know Gus when I was a young food broker. He taught me alot & always had something funny to say.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family. We both spent several years working with Gus(Marlene) at Advantage, the kids feast, having fun playing cards and meeting up at the casino. Always an inspiration to those around them.
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