Richard Lee "Dick" Delp

The family of Richard Lee “Dick” Delp is deeply saddened to announce his passing peacefully at home on May 10, 2023. Three months shy of 94, Dick was born August 30, 1929 in Clarksburg, West Virginia, to Lewis Edward and Sarah Rosetta Delp. The second youngest of eleven children, 4 sisters and 6 brothers all of whom predeceased him, Dick grew up in Avalon, a suburb of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Dick’s grandpa, Ephriam Gus Delp, born during the Civil War, enjoyed life until the age of 104, passing along longevity to his grandson. A graduate of Avalon high school, Dick was an all-around athlete, selected in his 1948 class as outstanding in sports, reciting his “indomitable fighting spirit and heads-up play, earning his title of outstanding athlete, having fun wherever he went.” This held true in his activities later in life, enjoying a lifestyle of golf, biking, swimming and walking at Stoneybrook Golf & Country Club, all of which he did daily just 4 short months ago. Dick’s career in the dairy business started early in life managing milk plants in Pittsburgh and Cleveland, culminating in sales and consulting for Vivolac Cultures Corporation in Indianapolis, Indiana, which brought about the nickname of “Creamy” by his golf buddies. Dick and his wife Patricia, whom he married July 11, 1953, enjoyed retirement in Zionesville, Indiana, spending time with friends and family, before relocating in Sarasota in 2003 to enjoy the sunshine and his continued pursuit of golf. A long-time parishioner of St. John’s Methodist Church, Dick held onto his faith throughout his life. In addition to his parents and siblings, Dick was predeceased by his oldest son David of Phoenix, Arizona. Dick leaves behind his devoted wife, Patricia, of 70 years, daughter Carole Wildes (predeceased by son-in-law, Cliff) of Sarasota, Florida, and sons Robert Delp (Carol) of Elyria, Ohio, and Tom Delp (Debbie) of Port Clinton, Ohio, along with six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Dick also leaves behind many loving friends and neighbors. A Celebration of Life will be held in the fall when family and friends can gather. Dick’s family asks that in lieu of a memorial contribution, you teach a child to play golf, pet a furry friend, or add “ie” on the end of someone’s name as Dick always did, leaving an indelible mark on those fortunate to be called “Susie,” “Eddie,” or “Bobbie!”

Tributes

Richard Lee "Dick" Delp

August 30, 1929 - May 10, 2023