Alfred Schorr Dietzel

Alfred Schorr Dietzel, 86, peacefully passed away on Friday, March 16, 2018.

A native of St. Louis, Missouri, Alfred was a veteran of the United States Army, having served proudly in France, where he joked that his position as a mail clerk made him “one of the most popular guys in his regiment.”  After his service, Al did post graduate studies at the Ringling School of Art in New York, NY, and then began what would become a successful career trajectory, starting in New Jersey, where he served as the Executive Director of the United Way of Union County in the early 1970’s.

In 1975 Al moved to Columbus, OH to become the Executive Director of the United Way of Franklin County.  From there he took on positions of increasing prominence, including serving as the President of the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce and on the Cabinet of Governor Richard Celeste as the Director of Economic Development for the State of Ohio.  Al ended his career as the Vice President of Public Affairs for The Limited Inc.   He retired in January 2002 at the age of 71.

But family always came first for Al, and he was a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather.  His wife of over 30 years, Sharon (Lake), Dietzel, passed away in 2010.  Alfred will be lovingly remembered by his daughters, Cathy McKnelly (Chic) and Debbie Longacre; his step-children, Jill Esposito and Scott Esposito (Lyndsey); his grandchildren, Jennifer, Austin, Tim, Christie, Ethan, Dylan and Zoe; his great-grandchildren, Emma, Wyatt, Henry, James, Elizabeth and Maddie.  He is also survived by his sister, Maureen; nephews,Bob and Mike; brother-in-law, Danny; and his companion, Evelyn Hogenson.

Alfred was a fitness enthusiast who loved golf, tennis, running, and in his later years, working out with his friends at the YMCA.  In the last few years, he enjoyed being an active member of the Jenner’s Pond Community, where he made many friends.  Alfred was also a strong supporter of women’s rights and was proud to have authored a book, “Women in America.”

A visitation will be held at Sycamore Hill Church, 505 School House Road, Hockessin, DE 19707 on Friday, March 23 from 11:00 AM-12:00 PM, with services immediately following.  Additional services will be held at a future date in Connecticut, where he will be laid to rest next to Sharon.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Alfred may be made to Sycamore Hill Church, or to the YMCA, 880 W. Baltimore Pike, West Grove, PA 19390.

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