Delores Elaine Glassel

Delores Elaine Glassel, of Albert Lea, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 18, surrounded by the love of her family. She will be remembered for her adventurous, spunky, and creative spirit.

A visitation will be held on Monday, December 29 at Bayview Funeral Home from 4 to 6 p.m.

Delores had a lifelong passion for sewing and was especially known for the handmade necktie teddy bears she lovingly created. Each bear was crafted with care and became a treasured keepsake for family and friends, reflecting her creativity, patience, and generous heart.

She loved to travel and embraced life on the open road, spending time exploring in her RV. Among her most cherished adventures were her multiple trips to Alaska—journeys that perfectly matched her sense of curiosity, independence, and love for new experiences.

She greatly enjoyed volunteering as a camp host at Myre-Big Island State Park, where she combined her love of the outdoors with the joy of sharing meaningful moments with friends and family. These experiences brought her great fulfillment and connection.

Above all, Delores cherished her family. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Virgil, and three of their children, Debbie Kiser, Carol Brandt, and Sandy Barber, along with several cherished family members. 

She is survived by two of her children, Elaine (Alden) Chamberlain and Dennis (Jess) Glassel; her siblings, Lyle (Lila) Helm and Cheryl Cummins; many grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and great-great-grandchildren, all of whom were a source of pride and joy in her life.

Delores leaves behind a legacy of love, creativity, adventure, and service. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.

The family is deeply grateful to Delores’s Mayo hospice care team for their compassionate care, comfort, and support throughout her final days.