Dr. Harry O. Delaney, a prominent Beloit physician and surgeon, was born on October 22, 1872, in Muscoda, Wisconsin. Dr. Delaney received his degree in medicine from Rush Medical College in Chicago in 1903. In 1904 he came to Beloit and started a practice here. On June 22, 1904 he married Miss Mary Allman of Monticello, Illinois.

The doctor spent his entire professional life in this city. He was a member of several organizations including the Phi Beta Pi medical fraternity, the Physicians and Dentists Club of Beloit, The Rock County Medical Society and the Wisconsin State Medical Association. He served as president of the Rock County Medical Society and as a member of the Beloit Municipal Hospital board and the hospital staff.

He was the city health officer from September 1932 to September 1933. A fourth degree member of the Knights of Columbus, Dr. Delaney was prominent in the affairs of St. Thomas council here for many years. He served as Grand Knight of the group and at one time was District Deputy. In his early years in Beloit, Dr. Delaney was one of the organizers of St. Jude Catholic Church where he served as trustee and treasurer for many years.

As a member of the Board of Education three terms, Dr. Delaney had an important part in school affairs, particularly in connection with the growth and improvement of the system. He was a member of the board from 1913-14, 1923-27 and 1929-32. During those years the junior high schools and many of the newer school building were constructed. A speaker of unusual ability, he frequently addressed gatherings of the Knights of Columbus and often was asked to be toast master at dinner programs and similar events.

He had a high sense of religious obligation and his ready wit and ability to emphasize the cheerful angle made many friends for him. Doctor and Mrs. Delaney had five children. Father Harry A. Delaney, Mrs. Katherine Walsh, Miss Margaret Delaney, James Delaney, Sister Mary Faith. Dr. Delaney died on April 18, 1939, at the age of 66.