Born on March 15, 1947, in Dixon, IL, son of Donald and Dorothy (Butterfield) Yocum.
Delbert married the love of his life, Sharon Hardy, on Sept. 4, 1966, at First Baptist Church in Amboy. Delbert served in the United States Army as an MP in Vietnam. When he returned home, they built a beautiful life together farming & raising a family in Franklin Grove. A quiet man, Delbert was dedicated to his wife and family. He was a devoted father and loving grandfather, being most patient, kind, and generously giving of all things. A man of few words, when he felt the need to share his insights, advice, and well-earned wisdom, it was deeply respected and appreciated by whoever was lucky enough to receive it.
Delbert was a lifelong farmer and professional truck driver, driving millions of safe miles all over the country over his lifetime, making friends wherever he went with his clever commentary and witty sense of humor. To say he was an avid collector of all that is John Deere is an understatement. He enjoyed attending auctions and any type of John Deere toy or tractor shows.
Delbert, Dad, Grandpa, ‘Papa Farmer’ will be so very deeply missed by his children Angela (Jerry) Newman of Oregon, Daniel Yocum of Franklin Grove, Melissa (Dan Luepkes) Yocum of Oregon, Douglas Yocum of Amboy, and 7 grandchildren & 3 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by 2 brothers, Merle Yocum of Amboy, Dallas (Sandra) Yocum of Polo, and one sister, Donna (Raymond) Ward of Oregon.
Sharon preceded him in death on March 11, 2024. He is also preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Melvin Yocum. Funeral services will be on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026, at 12:00 PM at Jones Funeral Home in Dixon. Burial will follow at Franklin Grove Cemetery. Visitation will be on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026, from 10:00 AM until the time of service at 12 noon at the Jones Funeral Home in Dixon. A memorial has been established.
