Rolf “Ralph” Dietmar Schmidt, 81, of Kennett Square, PA passed away peacefully on September 8, 2018 at his home. He was born in Naumburg, Germany, the only son of the late Albert and Helma Schmidt.
In 1952, Ralph emigrated alone from Germany and lived in Florida with his parent’s friends Mark and Georgia Kerr. He completed his secondary education at Deland High School and was a member of the National Honor Society; he remained close with many of his high school classmates. In 1956 Ralph moved to Wilmington, Delaware and started his long career with DuPont, studying at night to receive his college degree in civil engineering. He married his pre-deceased wife Joan (Carr) in 1962. Working for DuPont took him around the world; Ralph and Joan enjoyed travelling. Ralph also owned an equestrian supply company, Thornhill Enterprises, which he, his daughter Karla and a few close employees operated for 32 years.
In addition to his parents, Ralph was preceded in death by his wife of 46 years, and his son Rolf Eric. He is survived by his daughter Ingrid Charlton and her husband Frank of Avondale, and his daughter Karla Schmidt of Kennett Square, and two granddaughters Ava and Olivia.
Ralph was extremely grateful for the love and care provided to him by all his caregivers and aides, in particular his friend Sandi. The family is thankful as well.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, September 19, 2018 at 12 noon at Chandler Funeral Home 7230 Lancaster Pike, Hockessin, Delaware. Relatives and friends may call at the funeral home from 11 am-12 pm. Interment private at a later date; St. Patrick’s Cemetery.
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