Richard William Detrick

Dick was preceded in death by his loving wife of 61 years, Johnnie McClaran Detrick, his parents, Herbert H. and Grace Virginia Detrick of Hamilton, Ohio and his brother Samuel.

Dad is survived by his recent bride, Kathi Andersen. He is also survived by his beloved brother John Detrick (Lou), his children, Ann Detrick Grosser, (Robert), Daniel Detrick (Alisa), Thomas Detrick (Sarah), and James Detrick,(Maureen), 11 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, and numerous nephews and nieces.

Dad was a devoted Christian with a keen scientific mind. He was a member of the Creation Research Society and loved to defend his faith, attend church, and study the Bible.

Dad was a chemical engineering graduate of Case Western and received his PhD from the Paper Institute in Appleton, Wisconsin after writing his dissertation on the sex of aspen trees.

He enjoyed a lengthy career in the paper industry including IBM, Phillip Morris, James River Paper Corporation, and Abitibi Price. He was an adjunct professor at the Institute of Paper Science at Georgia Tech as well.

Dad will be remembered as a passionate elder at his church, Grace Church. He graciously would help anyone in need. Over the years, he and mom would open their home to all who were passing through Richmond. Many extended family and missionaries have enjoyed their hospitality. Dad often enjoyed a challenging round of tennis or golf, tracking mom's swimming events, or teaching the grandkids how to catch "old Oscar'' in Lake Patrick Henry.

Dad had a witty sense of humor and unique hobbies. His repertoire included scientific cheers, mathematical limericks, the best ghost stories, and numerous old songs. He loved to tell the same old jokes to anyone who had not heard them before! Some of his unique hobbies include collecting rare coins and maintaining a very well documented list of the many airports he had passed through over the years.

Dad was fortunate to find love again and marry Kathi Andersen. In recent years, he and Kathi enjoyed their garden view, classic movies, and spending time with family.

We will miss Dad dearly.

He chose to be cremated and a memorial service will be held at Grace Church at noon on Saturday, March 19th, 2022 with a private interment at Hollywood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Grace Church, 2240 Cranbeck Rd, North Chesterfield VA 23235. www.richgrace.org 804-292-9000