Delmar Hess

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Delmar Freeman Hess, III, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. Delmar was born on July 24, 1954, in Cleveland, Ohio, and passed away April 28, 2025, at home in Orlando, Florida.

Delmar married the love of his life, Rebecca Kay Marteney, on June 22, 1974. Together, they built a beautiful family, including their children, Elizabeth Hess Preston (Nicholas) of Orlando, Florida, and Zackary Hess (Samantha) of St. Cloud, Florida. Delmar was a proud grandfather to Lucas (Carrie), Julian, Matthew (Krysta), Emily, and Ethan, and a great-grandfather to Thio, Zoey, and Eli. He also cherished his 17 nieces and nephews.

Delmar was preceded in death by his parents Delmar Freeman Hess Jr., Barbara Grace Casto Hess, niece Emma Grace Hess and his brother David Hess (Connie). He is survived by his siblings, Becky Hess Whitlatch (David) of Belpre, Ohio, Jeannie Hess Pickens (Marvin) of Washington, West Virginia, Robert Hess (Christine) of Belpre, Ohio, and Fran Hess (Steve) of Belpre, Ohio.

A graduate of Belpre High School, Class of 1972, Delmar was a talented artist who expressed his creativity through various mediums, including painting, resin, wood, and cloth. His artistic legacy includes the sculptured panels he fabricated and installed on the exterior of Orlando City Hall, where you can still see them, today.

Delmar's professional journey was marked by his dedication and leadership. He served as the General Manager of Sebastian’s Fine Dining in Parkersburg, West Virginia, and Jonathan’s of Orlando in Orlando, Florida. He retired in 2020 from Marriott Vacations Worldwide as Director of Food & Beverage.

Above all, Delmar was a devoted father and grandfather, a mentor to many, and a loving companion to his two adored Labrador retrievers, Ziggy Marley and Stevie Ray Vaughan. Steve, who could not bear the heartbreak of losing his dad — immediately met him at the rainbow bridge.

His kindness, wisdom, and unwavering love will be deeply missed.

A celebration of life will be held to honor Delmar at a later date.