Harry F. Hettinger, Sr., age 85, of Dover, DE, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 3rd, 2016 at his home. Born in Shamokin, PA, he was the son of the late Harry C. Hettinger and Verna Raker Hettinger.
Harry had served in the U.S. Air Force for 21 years and had retired as a Master Sgt. Upon his retirement from service he remained an active member of the DAFB Museum for over 25 years. Beginning in 1971, he began working in the Retail Grocery business and eventually was the Store Manager for Thriftway at Carroll’s Corner until his retirement in 1992. A kind and gentle person, he and his wife served with the Catholic Charities Foster Parents Program for over 25 years. He was a Eucharistic Minister at Holy Cross Catholic Church, a Fourth Degree member of the Knights Of Columbus (Bishop Cartwright Council), American Legion (Walter L. Fox Post) and the B.P.O. Elks Lodge of Dover. Both he and his wife enjoyed their time traveling together and cherished spending time with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. In his quieter moments Harry enjoyed fishing and yard work.
He enjoyed the company of his family and friends and will surely be missed by those who knew and loved him. In brief, Harry was truly one of those people who really made a difference in this world.
He is survived by his wonderful wife of 58 yrs., Frances (Fran) Hettinger, Harry F., Jr. and wife Debbie of Dover, DE, Ronnie G. and wife Laura of Dover, DE, Elaine M. Ladich and husband, Juergen, of El Paso, TX, Karen E. Hettinger and fiance, Mark Larlham of Camden, DE, and Robert C. Hettinger of Dover, DE. Also survived by his 8 loving grandchildren along with 12 Great Grandchildren. This obituary would not be complete without mention of his precious cat, Muffin.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday, October 11, 2016 at 12 noon at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 631 S. State St. Dover, where a Viewing will be held starting at 10:30 am. Interment will follow in Holy Cross Cemetery, Dover, DE. Donations in his memory may be made to Holy Cross Church, 631 S. State St., Dover, DE. 19901 or to Mom's House of Dover, 864 S. State St. Dover, DE 19901. Life's End Services are by Michael J. Ambruso Funeral Director, Inc., Dover. Condolences may be forwarded to www.ambruso.com
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