W. David Racine's Obituary
Walter David Racine III “Dave”, age 87 of Rehoboth Beach, DE, passed away on Wednesday, November 23, 2022, at his home. He was born on Monday morning, March 11, 1935, in Wilmington, DE, son of the late Walter David, Jr. and Helen (Solway) Racine.
Dave lived in NYC until 1938, when the family moved to Winterthur Farms, where he lived until 1957. He attended Wilmington public schools and graduated from Wilmington High School, Class of 1952. Dave worked at Winterthur Farms as a farm hand all summers, vacation times, and in-between school terms from the age of 14 until he was almost 21 years old. He attended the University of Delaware, completing two years in mechanical engineering.
In July 1954, in Sunday school, Dave met the most beautiful and talented Catherine “Kitty” Schimmel. She had just moved to Wilmington from Panama, to attend Goldey-Beacom College. Dave was immediately attracted to her, and they had their first date in August, in which they drove to Rehoboth Beach for a day of waterskiing. From that day on, their romance blossomed, they fell in love, and were married on October 5, 1957. That love lasted for the rest of Dave’s life. Though he lost Kitty in this life in July 2004, they are now together again.
Dave loved sailing, especially racing sailboats and coastal living. He enjoyed cruising, building, and repairing boats. Dave was a 50+ year member of the Rehoboth Bay Sailing Association, where he served in many positions, including Commodore, member of the board, grounds manager, and all-around mentor to sailors young and old. He was a Life Member of the Elks Lodge and a faithful member of the Christian Science Church. Above all, Dave loved his family and spending time with them. He was a loving and devoted father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He was loved by all who knew him and will be greatly missed.
In addition to his parents, Dave was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 47 years, Catherine “Kitty” Schimmel Racine. He is survived by his children: David Alan Racine of Columbus, OH and Pamela Ann Racine of Rehoboth Beach, DE; his grandchildren: Amanda “Mandi” Catherine Brodersen of Seaford, DE, Hunter Reid Racine and Jasmine Pearl Racine, both of Columbus, OH; and his sister, Ruth Anne Racine-Richards (Dick).
“My Life has been a great life, with many ups and downs, good and not so good, with details beyond description, but as fabulous as anyone could ever hope for in this life on earth. I thank God for the life and the love I have had here on earth, as I move on with no regrets.” “ With deepest love and God’s guidance to all, “Dad” Walter David Racine, III”
A memorial service will be held on Thursday, December 29, 2022, at 11:00 AM, at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, 16961 Kings Highway, Lewes, DE, where friends may visit beginning at 10:00 AM.
Please visit and share memories at Dave Racine Memorial Facebook page www.facebook.com/groups/ , email family at [email protected] to be informed of future arrangements.
FLORIST NOTE: PLEASE DELIVER ALL ARRANGEMENTS BY 3PM WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28, 2022 TO OUR LEWES LOCATION.
What’s your fondest memory of W. David?
What’s a lesson you learned from W. David?
Share a story where W. David's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with W. David you’ll never forget.
How did W. David make you smile?