Milford Mourns the Passing of Beloved Citizen Louis “Dick” Carpenter, Jr.

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The Milford community is remembering Louis “Dick” Carpenter, Jr

MILFORD, Del. (Sept. 11, 2025) — The Milford community is remembering Louis “Dick” Henry Carpenter, Jr., a Navy veteran, longtime local businessman, and dedicated community supporter, who passed away Sept. 9 at Bayhealth Sussex Campus. He was 79.

Carpenter, born in Milford in 1945, spent more than 30 years with Milford Fertilizer, a family business founded by his father. Even after retirement, he continued to work part-time at NAPA Auto Parts in Milford, where his friends and co-workers say his humor, trademark wink, and infectious laugh made him a favorite among customers.

A proud U.S. Navy veteran and graduate of Milford High School, Carpenter was known for his loyalty to his hometown, his love of sports, and his devotion to family. He was an avid fan of NASCAR, the Phillies, and the Eagles, and rarely missed a chance to share his passion for the teams with friends and neighbors.

One of Carpenter’s proudest personal achievements was maintaining 36 years of sobriety. He dedicated much of his time to helping others through Alcoholics Anonymous, offering encouragement and guidance to countless individuals. Friends and family remember him as a beacon of hope, always ready to extend a helping hand to anyone in need.

“He never met a stranger,” said one longtime friend. “Dick made everyone feel welcome, and his kindness will be felt in Milford for years to come.”

Carpenter’s devotion to family was central to his life. He is survived by his daughter Jennifer McCoy and her husband Sam, his son Daniel Gronke, and four grandchildren: Aaron Anderson and his wife Krystal, Haylee Anderson, Madysyn Anderson, and Nathan Gronke. He was preceded in death by his wife of 19 years, Nancy K. Carpenter, in 2013.

A visitation will be held Sept. 13 from 11 a.m. to noon at Berry-Short Funeral Homes, 119 NW Front St. in Milford, followed by a memorial service at noon.

Carpenter’s legacy will live on in the community he loved and served, remembered not only for his work ethic and service but also for the warmth and laughter he brought to all who knew him.

Editor’s Fact Box: Louis “Dick” Henry Carpenter, Jr.

Born: Oct. 27, 1945, in Milford
Military Service: U.S. Navy Veteran
Career: 30+ years at Milford Fertilizer; later worked part-time at NAPA Auto Parts
Community Service: 36 years sober; mentor and supporter through Alcoholics Anonymous
Family: Survived by daughter Jennifer McCoy (Sam), son Daniel Gronke, and four grandchildren
Passions: Sports fan (NASCAR, Phillies, Eagles), loved dachshunds
Service Details: Visitation Sept. 13, 11 a.m.–12 p.m.; Memorial Service at 12 p.m. at Berry-Short Funeral Homes, Milford