Neil “Nels” P Delisanti
May 26, 1938 – October 27, 2018
Neil “Nels” Phillip Delisanti
After a long and valiant battle with cancer, Neil passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by family. He was a son, a father, a grandfather, a brother and good friend to many.
Born and raised in Rochester, NY, he was active in sports during his youth including winning a few state titles, his academics and sports lead him to be first person in Rochester to be recommended to attend the Air Force Academy. Upon graduating the academy as a pilot, he would fly for the Air Force taking him to countless countries around the world along with becoming a veteran of the Vietnam war.
During his 20 years of services, he obtained his MBA from Auburn University, along with being stationed at numerous bases before retiring at McChord AFB. Upon retirement Neil took his teaching skills and went on to be a mentor while teaching business at the University of Puget Sound and Evergreen University.
He loved working with his hands to build and create. While his main passion was sailing, he became an 
avid sailor, racing most weekends, teaching anyone wanting to learn to sail and always open to take anyone out for a sail on Puget Sound.
Neil was a wonderful father and grandfather to his children and grandchildren, a loyal and supportive friend who loved being with and working with people, always willing to offer someone a hand. But most of all, he loved his family.
He is survived by his wife Sue Ann, his children Ernest & Joanne Delisanti, Neil Delisanti, Maria Delisanti, Deanna Delisanti and his stepchildren Jason Raley and Scott Raley, his grandchildren Jordan and Kenna Delisanti, Kody Tegt, his brother Ernest Delisanti and his sister Mary Delisanti Gatto.
He will be interred at the USAF academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado Nov 16, 2018 2:00 pm.
“He was loved by many and a friend to all.”
9 Responses to “Neil “Nels” P Delisanti”
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Neil was a very special person who will be missed by so many. He has been a special friend to me and my family for 27 years. He taught my son to sail and gave my daughter advise when asked. He was a special person in my granddaughters life and an academic mentor to my greatgrandson AJ. The ultimate teacher! You will be missed Neil.
This is a wonderful tribute to a wonderful man. Neil was a barometer for my life. I could always confide in Neil my innermost thoughts, be they life, politics, or day to day challenges. Neil was my mentor in life. I will miss him the future, I miss him now. May your family be blessed with memories of a great man. Love ya Neil!
Much love to the entire Delisanti family. You are in our thoughts and heart during this time of loss.
All through life people cross our paths. Some for an instant. Some for awhile. Yet there are those who stand on a higher hill and shine with a brighter light. That was Neil. He was a great friend and mentor to many.
A mark of greatness, is when others take what they see and learn from someone, make it part of their own life, then pass it on to others. When that is done, that person lives forever.
To his family and friends, I offer my sympathies and condolences.
To Neil I say, Fair Winds, and offer a Slow Hand Salute.
Neil and I worked together in maintenance in the airlift wing at McChord. He was also a good friend. Oh, we fought. That is for sure, but I think his fortitude, devotion to duty and capabilities derived a very successful conclusion to our efforts. We, my late wife, Neil and me, also participated in sailing events. He was an “avid teacher” who selflessly shared his knowledge. He was also great officer and a good friend.
Neil was a true friend. One of the few that you meet in life that will always be remembered and loved.
Neil and I were maintenance officers at McChord. I have nothing but great memories of Neil as we fought the great battles between the C130s and the C141s. I should have visited with him more.
Had the great pleasure of working with Neil while we were with WSU Small Business Development Center. I am so sad to hear this news we had some good laughs a couple of sailing adventures and many serious discussions. Neil, you will be missed.
To: All family and friends of Uncle Neil.
May God Bless you during this time of need. Heaven received a true soldier. A man who loved Family, Life and Country. Thank you for your service. You will be missed but not Forgotten!