Delano James Mottaz

Del Mottaz, age 90, passed away peacefully on May 17, 2025. He was born on May 27, 1934 in St. Paul, MN. Del graduated from North St. Paul High School in 1953. He then served honorably in the U.S. Marines. Following his service, Del earned his bachelor's degree from the University of Wisconsin - River Falls, and later, his master's degree from St. Cloud State University. He began his teaching and coaching career at North Branch, MN, ultimately spending much of his career in the Osseo School District as a teacher and coach, and then as athletic director for Park Center High School from 1971 to 1994. In addition to promoting successful varsity programs, Del was an early advocate of girls' sports, adaptive sports, intramural sports, and class/tier systems for statewide competition. Del earned many statewide awards for his work, and in 1991 was inducted into the Minnesota State High School League Hall of Fame. In later years, Del and his wife, Lynn, enjoyed travel, inn-sitting, and spending time with family and friends across the country. 

Del was preceded in death by his mother, Corrine Chatterton, brothers Bill and Jess and their wives Pat and Lenore, and nephews John and Bobby. Lynn, his wife of 68 years, passed away in September, 2024. 

Del is survived by his children, Tom (Judy), Shelly, and Wayne, five grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. 

A Celebration of Del's Life will be held from 1:00-2:00 p.m. and Open House from 2:00-4:00 p.m. on September 27, 2025 at Evans-Nordby Funeral Home, 34 Second Street NE, Osseo, MN 55369. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Del's life are invited to make a gift to a charity of their choice.