Delores M. Telford

Delores M. Telford, 95, of Humboldt, passed away on Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at Homestead Assisted Living & Memory Care of Algona.

Delores was born on June 1, 1930, in Humboldt, Iowa and baptized as a Child of God, June 22, 1930.  She grew up on her parent’s farm outside of Humboldt and graduated from Humboldt High School in 1948. She lived a life deeply rooted in family, faith, and the quiet joys of home. She had a gentle strength about her, steady and dependable, always present for the people she loved.

She married her husband, Dean Telford, on October 21, 1951. Together they built a life rooted in family and faith, while also seeing much of the world. They lived in California during Dean’s service in the United States Marine Corps, spent several months in Russia, and traveled across the country visiting family and friends. They raised five children on their farm in Ottosen, and their family grew to include eight grandchildren and many great-grandchildren. Her greatest pride was her family, and she cherished time spent with them.

Delores found happiness in the simple and meaningful things. She loved baking and tending to her garden, and she was especially known for her homemade cookies, Chex party mix, and her ice cream roll. These treats became part of family gatherings and lasting memories, like the handmade quilts she made for all her children and grandchildren. Her kitchen was more than just a place to cook. It was where stories were shared, laughter echoed, and traditions were passed down.

Her faith was the firm foundation of her life and shaped the way she lived each day. A lifelong member of Zion Lutheran Church in Humboldt, from her baptism in childhood through her final years, she also spent many years at Peace Lutheran Church in West Bend. She expressed her faith through kindness, generosity, and quiet service. Through LWML and Lutheran World Relief, she quilted for those in need. Whether in her garden, her kitchen, or at her sewing table, she cared for others with steadiness, humility, and trust in the Lord.

Delores is survived by her children Deb Andersen (Scott) of Douglas, Wyoming; Diane Foth (Brad) of Livermore; Nancy Groves (David) of Colleyville, Texas; and Steve Telford (Lori) of Adel; her grandchildren Jeff Foth (Stacy), Ryan Foth (Ashley), Niki Tietjen (Chris), Tyler Andersen, Katie Lowe (David), Jonathan Groves (Amy), Taylor Telford, and Tania Telford; her eight great-grandchildren Keira, Jake and Harlee Foth, Hannah, Brooke and Dustin Tietjen, Dean and Hope Lowe, and Calvin and Clara Groves; and a large extended family who give thanks for her life.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Bertha Moench; her brothers, Herb and Rich Moench; her husband, Dean Telford; and her son, Gary Telford.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, February 24th at Zion Lutheran Church in Humboldt. Visitation will be from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Monday, February 23rd at the church. Burial will be in Union Cemetery, Ottosen. The Mason-Lindhart Funeral & Cremation Service of Humboldt is in charge of the arrangements. www.masonlindhart.com