Cecil Edward Dilts, 85, of Indiana, died on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh.
A son of Cecil Ward Dilts and Margaret Costello Biggs, Cecil was known for his sunny disposition and incredible work ethic. One of eleven children, he began working odd jobs at a very early age to help support his family. He was especially fond of his grandparents Joseph P. and Blanche Pearl Costello who nurtured his selfless spirit.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 44 years, Rosa; six children – Chris and wife Jill; Douglas, Vicky Hill and husband Bryan; Vivian Servey and husband Ken; Jason and wife Amy; and Bianca; eleven grandchildren – Ashley Wales and husband Tyler; Justin, Jeri, Stephen and wife Chelsea; Nathan Hill, Erin Servey, Katelyn Servey, Ben Servey, Emma Servey, Cecil, and Edith; four great grandchildren; and siblings – Joann, Donna Albright and husband Fred; Larry Biggs and wife Mary.
He was preceded in death by his parents and seven siblings, including brothers Verner F. Dilts and David M. Dilts.
After graduating from Blairsville High School in 1955, he enlisted in the Army. He served in the Korean War as a Specialist Fourth Class.
Cecil worked for 16 years at Torrance State Hospital. After retiring, he became a member of the Indiana Lion’s Club where he was voted Lion of the Year during the 2002-2003 year. He attended Saving Grace Church in Indiana and made many wonderful friends there.
He was an avid gardener, enjoyed long walks, and swimming at the YMCA. He especially loved taking his beloved dog Reagan, for car rides to Tractor Supply Co. He also had a newly unveiled passion for writing, as his family stumbled across a collection of stories he’d written over the last few years. Words that are well worth sharing:
“God must have had a special part in his heart for me, to give me a magnificent life. If you read this letter today, next week, next year, you’ll realize how happy I’ve been all my life. Very few sad times, but sad is good. It shows you how happiness can be a great asset.” -Cecil E. Dilts
These words were certainly meant to be discovered after his passing; his way of comforting our broken hearts. That was something he was always great at, and one of the many reasons he will be so terribly missed.
A private family service will be held at the Bowser Minich Funeral Home. Donations can be made in Cecil’s name to Saving Grace Church, 921 Hospital Road, Indiana, PA 15701, or the YMCA of Indiana County, 60 North Ben Franklin Road, Indiana, PA 15701.
