Gerald M. Dalbec, 74, of Superior, Wis. died Monday, January 3, 2011 at St. Luke's Hospice in Duluth, Minn.

Gerald was born in Blueberry, Wis., on November 6, 1936, the son of Elizabeth (DeRosia) and Edward E. Dalbec.

He enlisted in the Air Force and served his country from 1955-1960.

Gerald married the former Julia "Julie" James in Pine City, Minn. on Aug. 1, 1960 and they recently celebrated their 50th anniversary.

He had worked at Great Lakes Storage as a mechanic and was a member of the Teamsters Union Local #346. He was also a member of St. Williams Catholic Church.

Gerald enjoyed hunting, fishing, golf, playing pool and cards. He was an avid Green Bay Packer and NASCAR fan. He and his brothers ran stock cars in the early 60's and 70's. Most important to him was spending time with his grandchildren; they were the love of his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Kenny Dalbec; sister, Betty Drolson; and three nephews, Jerry and Roger Dalbec and Pete Drolson.

Gerald is survived by his wife, Julie; daughters, Judy (Mike) Hagen of Superior, Danita (Andy) Vardy of Plymouth, Minn.; grandchildren, Chad (Brianna) Hagen of South Range, Wis., Ryan, Melissa and Tiffany Hagen of Superior, Tyler Thompson of Foxboro, Wis. and Tabitha Thompson of Plymouth; brothers, Bobby (Jan) Dalbec of Superior, Daniel Dalbec of Brule, Wis. and Hubert and Ronnie Dalbec of Maple, Wis.; sisters-in-law, Liane Dalbec of Maple, Wis. and Franie James of Superior; brother-in-law, John Drolson of Ashland, Wis.; and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial mass will be held on Thurs., Jan. 6 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Williams Catholic Church with Rev. Fr. Ronald Olson, Rev. Fr. Kevin Gordon and Rev. Gary Garnatz as celebrants. Visitation will begin one hour prior. Military Honors will be accorded by the Richard I. Bong American Legion Post No. 435. Inurnment will be in Summit Cemetery.

Downs Funeral Home, corner of 19th St. and Ogden Ave., is assisting the family with arrangements.