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302-478-7100 Wilmington & Hockessin, DE

Richard. A. Rowe, PhD

Richard A. Rowe, 91, died December 18, 2019. Dick was born in northeast Philadelphia, PA and moved to Wilmington, DE in 1934. The son of Mary R. Kattinge and Richard J. Rowe, DDS he was a fifth generation duPont employee after being graduated from Archmere Academy (HS), University of Delaware (BS  MS), and University of Illinois (PhD). His academic research contributed to the synthesis of high temperature polysiloxane lubricants and the dimethyl hydrazine fuel used in launching America’s first satellite. In the Pigments Dept. of duPont at Newport, DE he contributed to the production of Titanium and Columbium metal. He later transferred to the Legal Dept. where he served as a Patent Agent for duPont then Atlas Chemical / ICI America until his retirement.

In 1953, he married Grace E. Bakey his high school classmate and dance teacher of 11 years. Dick is survived by his wife of 66 years, Grace; son Richard J.; grandchildren Ronald G. and Chelsea G.; and great grandchildren Kaden, Emma, and Brennan.

Proud of his heritage and proud of his family, Dick was known to tell illuminating stories highlighting his legacy. He is remembered for recounting with colorful details vacations, significant work events, personal projects, joyful pranks, special memories, and lasting dreams– all with colorful details.

Funeral Services

A private graveside service was held at St. Joseph on the Brandywine Roman Catholic Church, Greenville, DE on Monday December 23, 2019.

 

Condolences

    Andrew H, Betley writes,
    Grace, We have never met. I have enjoyed knowing and having lunch with Dick, the third Friday of every month for at least the past five years or more. I am a member of the Retired Men's Lunch Club. I will miss him and his luncheon comments to speakers. No speaker was safe when Dick was on a ROLL. I considered him a friend. My condolences to you and your son in your loss. Andrew Betley
    12/24/2019 12:08 pm
    Joan whitney
    12/29/2019 11:59 am
    Joan whitney writes,
    Dear Grace, So very sorry to read about Dicks death in the paper today. I’ve always enjoyed sitting behind you and Dick in church and waiting for him giving me a hug at the sign of peace, My sympathy to youand your family Sincerely Joan Whitney
    12/29/2019 12:13 pm
    Joe and Rosemary Kelly writes,
    Dear Grace, We were so very sad to hear of Dick’s passing. It was always fun to see him. We enjoyed his quick wit. He always had a comment to make us laugh. Joe mentions that he enjoyed working with Dick at ICI. He was such an interesting, brilliant and entertaining person. We keep you in our thoughts and prayers, and hope you find peace thru your love of God, and as your family surrounds you at this difficult time. With warm regards, Joe and Rosemary Kelly
    01/02/2020 11:41 am

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