Delores J. Link

Delores Jane Link, 85, a lifelong resident of the Kansas City area, died peacefully while surrounded by family on Tuesday, November 5.

Born in 1934 to Leo and Mildred Hill, she was Kansas City’s first-ever “Penny Baby” as her father paid for her birth entirely in pennies. She went to Westport High School and graduated in 1952.

Delores was active at St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church, where she and her husband, Elmer, got married and were members for more than 50 years. She was also part of the Altar & Rosary Society, as well as the pinochle club. At the VFW Post 7900, she served in various Auxiliary positions, including as president.

She raised their four children and then worked for Dodson Insurance, where she retired. She also then worked at and retired from the Missouri Department of Conservation, a place perfectly suited to her interest in animals, fishing, and the outdoors.

She made and cherished many friendships formed through her volunteering at church and the VFW, as well as during her years of working in the Conservation Department offices.

Delores is survived by three of her children: Debbie (Julian) Dziurawiec, Tom Link, and Ed Link; close family Jo and Kenny; six grandchildren: Robert Link, Jason Link, Chris (Melissa) Dziurawiec, Jesse (Shannon) Dziurawiec, Jerome (fiancée Samantha) Link, and Kenealy Link; four great-grandchildren: Austin, Mason, Anna, and Olivia Dziurawiec; a sister, Helen Crosson; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews; and her beloved dog, Daisy.

She is preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, Elmer Link; son, Bob Link; brother, Jack Hill; sister, Bonnie Lalicker; and many other loving relatives, friends, and pets.

Delores enjoyed playing bingo, fishing, gardening, spending time in nature, being surrounded by her family and friends, and winning the MO Lottery Pick 3 as often as possible. She was an avid fan at any and all of her grandkids’ activities, and she was thrilled to be a great-grandma (“G.G.”). She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers and gifts, donations can be made to the Missouri Department of Conservation.

Visitation will be 6-8PM, Friday, November 8 at Park Lawn, 8251 Hillcrest Rd. with services 10AM, Saturday, November 9 at St. Catherine of Siena Parish, 4101 E. 105th Terr.; burial in Mt. Moriah Cemetery.

Visitation will be 6-8PM, Friday, November 8 at Park Lawn, 8251 Hillcrest Rd. with services 10AM, Saturday, November 9 at St. Catherine of Siena Parish, 4101 E. 105th Terr.; burial in Mt. Moriah Cemetery.