Mr. Delbert Erwin Baltus, 78, of Columbia, died Monday, October 31, 2016. Born in Buffalo Lake, MN, on December 9, 1937, he was a son of the late Erwin C. and Della Haag Baltus. A veteran of the US Army, Delbert served at Fort Jackson, where he met his late wife, Margaret Jean Workman Baltus. He was a longtime member of Bethel Baptist Church and was known affectionately as the "Lawn Mower Man" for his ability to repair lawn equipment. Delbert retired after 28 years of service to the State of South Carolina, having worked in maintenance at the Midlands Center. He was friendly and outgoing, and never met a stranger. Delbert loved his children and grandchildren, and his caring and generous spirit will be greatly missed.

Delbert is survived by his special companion of over 11 years, Marie McCarty; daughters, Sheryl Whitlock (Ben), Debra Hill (Terry), and Stacy Sommerville (Todd); grandchildren, Ben, Nick, Abby, Kelly, Austin, Amanda, Justin, and Emily; brother, Leonard Baltus; and sisters, Lorraine Baltus Frye, Vangie Anderson, Marlene Rowe, and Darlene Malecha.

The graveside service for Mr. Baltus will be held at 2 o'clock, Friday, November 4th, at Greenlawn Memorial Park, with The Rev. Jerry Houghton officiating. The family will greet friends following the service. Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.

Memories and condolences may be shared at ShivesFuneralHome.com.