Darrell E. Lauritsen

Darrell E. Lauritsen, born on August 6, 1932 to Melvin and Carmel Lauritsen in the home they built at 1810 Monticello Rd., delivered by Dr. Dwight Murray Senior, passed away June 19, 2003, peacefully at his home on Vichy Avenue surrounded by his loved ones.

Mr. Lauritsen will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 46 years, Evelyn; and his three children, Michael Lauritsen (Kathy) of Gardnerville, Nev., Chris Lauritsen (Linda) of Napa and Lori Gelow and his favorite son-in-law, Gregory Gelow, of Napa.

He was the proud papa of five grandchildren, Ashley and Jillian of Gardnerville, and Jacqueline, Michael and Grant (his golfing buddy) Gelow of Napa.

He will also be remembered by numerous family members: sister-in-law Donna Lauritsen Durte, of Napa; brother-in-law and sister-in-law Jack and Karen Smith, of Palm Springs; his favorite nurse and friend, Holly Smith; his cousins, Laura Reed, Evie Bushman, Von Webb, Milton Webb and Stan Webb; and many good friends.

He is predeceased by his parents; his brother, Ed Lauritsen; his uncle, Claude Lauritsen; his Aunt Violet; and cousin Al Lauritsen.

A 1950 graduate of Napa High School, Darrell worked and owned Napa Valley Beverage for years and later worked for Bellini Trucking until he retired on the front bench at the Wagon Wheel Market and Deli greeting everyone with a smile.

Mr. Lauritsen was a 50-year member of the Native Sons of the Golden West Napa Parlor #62, and a former member of its Drum and Bugle Corps; a 20-year member of the Napa Elks Lodge #832; and member of the Napa Valley Country Club where he loved to play golf.

A celebration of his life will be held Friday, June 27 at noon at the Napa Elks Lodge, 2840 Soscol Ave., Napa.

Memorial contributions may be made to Elks Major Projects, 2840 Soscol Ave. Napa, CA 94558.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Claffey and Rota Funeral Home.