Richard R. Suchanec Ph.D.

1932 - 2014

Richard R. Suchanec, PhD

AGE: 81 • Newark

Richard Suchanec, age 81, of Newark, DE died on Saturday, September 6, 2014 at Rockland Place. He was born on September 9, 1932 in McKees Rocks, PA, the son of the late Steve and Mary (Sobek) Suchanec.

Richard graduated from Geneva College in Beaver Falls, PA with a bachelor's degree in chemistry, math and physics. He was the first person to ever achieve a triple major. He then went on to the University of Pittsburgh, PA and taught graduate students there while earning his PhD in organic chemistry. At that time, he married Elizabeth "Liz" Pearson upon her graduation from Geneva College, and together they moved to Newark where he became a research scientist with Hercules, Inc. Richard worked tirelessly there for 37 years before retiring in 1999. During his career with Hercules he was a process technology consultant and later a Rosin/Resin specialist. He was also the originator of seven patents.

Following retirement, Richard had a strong desire and interest to mentor and share his love of math. He volunteered and taught along with Mike Wisniewski, who was the head of the Math Department at Newark Charter School. He was affectionately known as "Doc".

His pleasure and achievements were abruptly cut short when he suffered two strokes and developed dementia. Throughout this set back, he faced each day bravely with a remarkable sense of humor and acceptance.

Richard is survived by his wife of 58 years, Liz; and his daughter and son-in-law, MaryBeth and Jack Bonvetti. He considered Jack a son. Richard is also survived by five wonderful and respectful grandchildren, Courtney Suchanec, Andrew Bonvetti, Samantha Bonvetti, Alec Bonvetti and Kaylee Bonvetti. In addition, he is survived by three brothers, Steve (Barbara), Ray (Dee) and John (Reid); a sister, Ro Grizzard (John); and many nephews and nieces.

He was predeceased by his son, Jeffrey, who died in 1990 at the age of 33.

The family wishes to thank the compassionate staff and care givers at Rockland Place, Seasons Hospice and Bayada Home Health Care. Deep gratitude is also extended to good friends and neighbors, who were invaluable.

Family and friends are invited to visit at the Doherty Funeral Home, 3200 Limestone Road, Pike Creek on Thursday, September 11 from 5:00-7:00PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. John the Beloved Church, 907 Milltown Road, Wilmington on Friday, September 12 at 10:00AM. Interment will follow in All Saints Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Richard may be made to the Sunday Breakfast Mission, PO Box 352, Wilmington, DE 19899-0352.

To offer condolences, visit

www.dohertyfh.com

302-999-8277