Chesapeake – Retired Portsmouth Police Officer and loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, Delbert Nelson Zirkle, 86 passed away on April 22, 2024. Born in Norfolk County Virginia, he was a life-long resident of Tidewater.

He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years Bonnie Kyle Zirkle, his daughters Valerie A. Butt and spouse Holt W. Butt, III, Karen E. Ward and spouse Freeman Ward of Portsmouth, VA and his son Mark E. Zirkle of Chester, VA as well as his grandchildren, Stephen J. Butt , Jessica M. Butt (Dillion), LeAnne C. Eubanks Ryan E. Zirkle (Lindsey), and great grandson, Brewer D. Zirkle.

A Veteran of the of the U.S. National Guard, U.S. Army and the U.S. Air Force. "Del" traveled the World, before returning to Portsmouth to marry and raise a family. An adoring husband, he would tell anyone the story of the first time he saw Bonnie leaving the bakery on Afton Square in Cradock all those years ago. After serving 32 years on the Portsmouth Police Department, he retired in 1994 to enjoy a long and healthy retirement dedicated to his family and friends. A kind and generous man, he was always willing to help and ever present in his extended family's lives. He spent many years as a high school and college basketball referee and umpire before retiring , a job and hobby that he loved. He also enjoyed travel, reading and gardening.

His family wishes to celebrate a loving life, well lived and asks that you  join us at his Mass of the Resurrection Wednesday May 1st  2024,11:00 a.m. in St. Mary's Catholic Church, Bowers Hill with the Very Rev. Anthony Wm. Morris, V.F. officiating, followed by a reception in the church hall.

Condolences may be send to BWFosterFuneralHome.com.