Delbert Allen Smilak

Delbert Allen Smilak, lovingly known as “Delbie”, 86, of Daugherty Twp, PA, hit his last grand homer on January 06, 2026, surrounded by family at home. He was a devoted husband to his wife of 42 years, Susan (Black) Smilak, and a loving father to his daughters: Joy McDonald (Bill Alexander), Stephanie Smilak, Jessica Inscho (Brett), and Nikki Smilak Camp (Nathanael). He was a proud and playful “Pappo” to his grandchildren: Isaac, Lucas, and Adelaide Inscho, and Jessica and Brooke Barletto. Delbert is survived by his siblings Richard Smilak, Rose Marie Smilak, and John Smilak (Patty), and was preceded in death by his brother James Smilak (Lina). He was the beloved son of Alex and Rose (Simko) Smilak.

Delbert was an incredible husband, father, Pappo, confidant, companion, and friend. He graduated in 1959 from Beaver Falls High School and worked 42 years as a Millwright Rigger for Babcock and Wilcox Steel in Koppel, PA. Del loved playing ball of any kind and carried that same enthusiasm into everything he did. He proudly coached his daughters’ softball teams in the New Brighton Recreational Softball League from 1992 to 2008. Known for his goofy sense of humor, Delbert could make anyone laugh (especially himself)—often crying with laughter at his own jokes before he ever reached the punchline.

He loved adventures: camping, hiking, kayaking, and cooking s’mores over an open fire. He danced in the kitchen with ridiculous dance moves, sang wildly out of key to oldies, doo-wop, and polka songs, and never missed an opportunity to dress up in over-the-top Halloween costumes. Delbert also attended Concord Church in Beaver Falls, where his faith was an important part of his life.

We went into extra innings, as Del was not ready for his game to end. In our final late-night huddle, we spoke to him of Heaven, and Heaven took the lead, gently guiding him home. He now watches over and protects us from above. The one. The only. Delbert Smilak—the MVP of our lifetime.

Friends will be received Saturday, January 10, 2026, from 2-5pm, at the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 3rd Ave, New Brighton. An additional visitation will be held Sunday, January 11, 2026, from 3pm until the time of the funeral service at 4pm, at Concord Church, 285 Concord Church Rd, Beaver Falls, with pastors Chris Kindle and Arthur Black officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or American Diabetes Association.