Robert Joseph Kempski, Sr.

Robert J. Kempski, Sr., age 70 of Wilmington, DE, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, May 25, 2015.

Bob was born on May 2, 1945, son of the late Edward S. and Helen (Swiderski) Kempski. He graduated from Conrad High School in 1963 where he lettered in football and baseball. He went on to play semi-pro baseball and even tried out for the St. Louis Cardinals. He was a proud member of the Plumbers and Pipefitters Local #74, retiring in 1997.

Bob spent many of his summers in Pot-Nets and Fenwick Island where he enjoyed fishing and spending time with his children and grandchildren. He was an avid Phillies, Eagles and Ravens fan and had a special interest in local sports teams, especially Wilmington University Baseball. He was a lifelong member of St. Matthew’s Parish where he and his wife, Dianne served as the first marriage encounter team couple.  He loved coaching baseball and football and helping boys reach their potential. Bob was a lovable husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. He always had a smile and a joke for anyone who saw him and was always ready to lend a helping hand. Even through his pain and illnesses, he would try to make you smile and laugh.

Bob is survived by his wife of close to 50 years, Dianne (Kozikowski) Kempski; his children, Lynn Ann Kempski Nowell and Robert J. Kempski, Jr.; his grandchildren, Nathan, Bradley and Samantha Nowell and Andrew, Rachel and Brady Kempski; his sister, Elaine Stigile; his nephew, Michael E. Kozikowski, Jr.; his nieces, Tamala Stigile and Leda Kozikowski; and many other members of his extended family.

In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by his brothers, Edward D. and Thomas Kempski.

Family and friends are invited to visit at the Doherty Funeral Home, 3200 Limestone Road, Pike Creek from 5:00 – 7:00pm on Friday, May 29, 2015. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00am on Saturday, May 30, 2015 at St. Matthew’s Church, 901 E. Newport Pike, Wilmington, DE 19804. Interment will follow in Cathedral Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, Bob’s family suggests making contributions to Help Hospitalized Veterans, Inc., 36585 Penfield Lane, Winchester, CA 92596.

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