Gene Meader Pettingill

Gene Meader Pettingill, age 94, passed away on Friday, June 23, 2023. He was born on February 23, 1929, in Grand Rapids, MI to the late Robert D. Pettingill, and Eleanor Belle (Urquhart) Pettingill.

Gene grew up in New York City, and later in Valley Stream, New York. He began his college career at Columbia University, then proudly served for two years in the United States Army Chemical Corps. Following his honorable discharge in 1952, Gene finished his degree at the University of Colorado, where he also served as an introductory-level instructor. He worked for many years as a Chemical Engineer, first with DuPont for forty years, and more recently serving over two decades in the air quality division of the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Controls. Gene held several patents for developing new chemical production processes. His passion and dedication to his work led him to continue working until two months before his passing. He took joy in reading, lifelong learning, music, movies, and strawberry ice cream. He also had a deep appreciation for travel, visiting many countries around the world. Gene will be deeply missed by all that knew him.

Gene is survived by his wife, Julie Ziemer; daughters, Samantha Pettingill (Edward), Calista Pettingill (Dustin); son, Theodore Pettingill.

In addition to his parents, Gene is preceded in death by his son, Robert Pettingill, and daughter, Susan Stewart.

At the convenience of the family, services will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made payable to the “Delaware Food Bank” in care of R.T. Foard and Jones Funeral Home, 122 W. Main Street, Newark, DE 19711.