Delia Lillian Partis

Delia Lillian, 103, better known as Lil, was a one-of-a-kind lady. She passed away February 5, 2024, just one day short of her 104th birthday. Her goal was to live to 105 years.

Lillian was born in Council Grove, nestled in the Flint Hills of Kansas, on February 6, 1920, the daughter of Guy M. Towers and Mabel D. (Stitt) Towers, later to become a family of six children.

She graduated Olathe, Kansas High School in 1939, and was active in many school activities. She held the distinction of being the first female cheerleader of that school.

During World War II, she worked in Kansas City in a defense plant and later in the Hyer Boot Company in Olathe, Kansas. When she moved to California, she had a career in banking and in city government before retiring and returning to Kansas. After moving to Ottawa, she first volunteered at the Ottawa library and later became employed by the city at that library.

As a young girl, she was a happy active child. According to Lil, there was never a tree or a water tower she couldn’t climb which was more of a symbol of her life as she met every challenge she encountered. She loved every kind of spectator sport; “anything with a ball.”

Music was a big part of her life. When she was in high school, she was a member of every music organization. After graduation, she sang on WHB radio in Kansas City. Even after retiring to Washburn Towers in Ottawa, Kansas, she continued to sing karaoke in a strong alto voice.

Lillian was married to Frank Blankenbeker. To that marriage the pride and love of her life, her daughter Nola Jane, was born. Lillian later married Chet Partis in California.

Lil was known for her outgoing personality and fun spirit. She will be greatly missed by her many friends and especially her family.

She is survived by her daughter, Nola Jane England and her sister, Janiece (Jan) Towers; both of Ottawa, Kansas. Her sister-in-law, Wann Towers of Manhattan, Kansas and her many Towers and Hutchinson nieces and grand nieces, and nephews, living in Kansas, New Jersey, New York, Texas, Colorado, Iowa, and Utah.

She was preceded in death by her husband Chet Partis, her parents, brothers; Richard and Charles Towers, and sisters; Louise Hyer and LaVaun Miller.

Lillian’s family would like to thank all the staff at Rock Creek of Ottawa for all their loving care for Lillian during her final days.

Lillian has requested no funeral. Her family will gather later for a private celebration of life in the Flint Hills.