Fredrick C. Zumsteg, Jr.

Fredrick (Rick) C. Zumsteg, Jr.  passed away with his wife by his side on Monday, September 25, after a courageous battle against AML.  Born in Mansfield, Ohio in 1943, Rick was the son of Fredrick C. and H. Jean Zumsteg.

Rick led a fulfilling life and will be remembered for his humor, intellect, boundless curiosity and friendship. He was a loving husband to his wife of 37 years, Helen, a devoted parent to his son, Eric, and doting “Grandpa” to Connor.

After graduating from the University of Illinois in 1964, Rick earned his PhD from the University of Rochester in Applied Physics in 1972.   He then did post-doctoral research at Cornell University before beginning his 36-year career with Dupont as a research physicist.  He was awarded numerous patents for his work in non-linear optics and photoresist microlithography.  After retiring from DuPont, Rick continued his research part-time for 11 years with a start-up company, NovaCentrix (now PulseForge) located in Round Rock, Texas.

Rick had many interests in life including travel, cycling, singing, gardening, weather and photography, as well as being an excellent handyman.  His passion for travel was ignited at age 10 when he took a 10-week trip with his grandfather and cousin across the western US and into Canada.  His travel fascination continued throughout his life and took him to all 50 states and the 7 major continents.  He often combined cycling and singing with travel and felt fortunate to have sung in Europe, as well as the US.

Rick’s beautiful tenor voice earned him lead roles in Ardensingers productions and as a chorister at Zion Lutheran Church.  He sang with many organizations including OperaDelaware, Westminster Choir, Brandywiners, Mendelssohn Club and Delaware Valley Chorale.  He was an enthusiastic volunteer presenter for many years at The Franklin Institute.

Family was very important to Rick.  He was always the one sought after when we were seeking answers to complex problems. His broad knowledge generated lively conversations at every family gathering and he was the most sought-after team member for Trivial Pursuit game night. Rick was loving and caring, as well as a wonderful friend who will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

Rick was predeceased by his son, Eric.  He is survived by his wife, Helen, his brother, Steve (Tresa), his daughter-in-law, Liza, his grandson, Connor, as well as many members of his extended family.

A memorial celebration in Rick’s honor will be held on Saturday, October 14, at 11 am at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1502 W. 13^th Street, Wilmington, DE 19806.  In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Rick’s memory to Westminster Presbyterian Church Music Fund at wpc.org.