Ernest Joseph Delia, 88, of Prince Frederick died on Friday, Feb. 22, 2008, at his home.

He was born Sept. 26, 1919, in Canton, Ohio, the son of the late Joseph Delia and Elizabeth Mariol Delia.

He was a Veteran of the USAF, from January 1941, through May 1964. He served during World War II, flying 30 missions over Europe, and in the Korean Conflict. After retirement, he had a successful real estate business, followed by a third career with the Maryland Department of Licensing and Regulation.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Kathryn ''Kit" Delia and his brother, Luke Delia.

He is survived by his sons, Victor, Gregory and his wife Debbie, and Michael and his wife Wanda; grandchildren, Brandi McFaul, Cydney, Jennifer, Matthew, Richard, Wesley and Adrienne Delia; great-grandchildren, Ryleigh and Brogan McFaul; and sister, Stella Svik.

Mass of Christian Burial was held Feb. 28 at St. John Vianney Catholic Church in Prince Frederick.

The interment followed in the church cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. John Vianney at the above address or Calvert Hospice, P.O. Box 838, Prince Frederick, MD 20678.