Richard Allen “Dick” Hassel, age 77, of Claymont, DE, passed away Sunday, January 7, 2024.  

Born August 9, 1946 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Dick was the oldest of Allen and Peg Hassel’s four children. After graduation from Washington High School, he joined the U.S. Navy. Dick’s time in the “Silent Service” took him to New London and Groton, Connecticut, where he met his wife Patricia “Pat”. He later graduated from the University of Wisconsin, Stevens Point, with a degree in ichthyology and was an original member of the Rome Fire Department in Rome, Wisconsin.

Post-graduation, Dick went to work for the federal government as a biologist with the Army Corps of Engineers, retiring as Assistant Chief, Regulatory Branch, Philadelphia District. He spent a month in New Orleans, assisting with clean up in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, and his adherence to policies and procedures earned him the nickname, “Regulatory Hassel.”

His retirement years were spent riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle with Pat and his longtime friend, Donny Rusden and cheering on the Phillies and Eagles.

Dick is survived by his wife of fifty-five years, Pat; his son, Matthew (Stacey); his sister, Donna Krischan; his grandchildren, Amanda, Ryan, Rylee, Reagan; and great-grandson, Ezra. He was predeceased by his parents, his son, Allen, his brother, Dennis and sister, Judy.

A visitation will be held at the Claymont Fire Hall, 3223 Philadelphia Pike, Claymont, DE 19703 on Saturday, June 1, 2024 from 11am – 12pm, where a Memorial Service will begin at 12pm. Burial will be private.

To offer condolences, please visit:

Gebhartfuneralhomes.com

302.798.7726