Richard A. Runkle, Sr. - Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Homes & Crematory

Richard A. Runkle, Sr.

February 14, 1929 - January 27, 2015

Richard A. Runkle, age 85, of Newark, DE, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his own home while surrounded by his family, on Tuesday, January 27, 2015.

Born in Shamokin, PA on Valentine’s Day, 1929, Mr. Runkle was the son of the late Lewis Guy Runkle and Edna Marie (Eister) Runkle. He proudly served his country as a member of the US Navy. His military service included participating in Operation Highjump on the USS Philippine Sea and as a member of a scientific exploration team in the Antarctic under the command of Admiral Byrd. After his honorable discharge, Mr. Runkle would begin his career as an electrical engineer with the DuPont Company, retiring after 36 years of dedicated service.

A skilled pilot, his passion in life was aviation. Mr. Runkle built and maintained his own RV-7 airplane and also flew family and friends to various locales. In the mid 1960’s, he was a member of the Four Muskateers, an elite air show flying team. He shared his aviation skills with up and coming pilots by serving as a flight instructor with Atlantic Aviation. Mr. Runkle continued to actively fly until March of 2011.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, M. Fay Runkle and a son-in-law, Robert Galluci. He is survived by his children, Richard A. Runkle, Jr. (Carol) of Newark, DE, David Runkle (Barbara) of Landenburg, PA, Elaine Godwin (Kenny) of Newark, DE and Nancy Galluci of Chesapeake City, MD; 10 grandchildren; and 9 great grandchildren.

A visitation for family and friends will be held from 12 Noon until 1 pm on Friday, February 6, 2015 at the Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 121 W. Park Place, Newark, DE. A committal service will follow at 2 pm in the chapel of the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 2465 Chesapeake City Road, Bear, DE.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Massey Air Museum, 33541 Maryland Line Road, Massey, MD 21650.

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15 Condolences for Richard A. Runkle, Sr.

  • Dear Rick and Carol. I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. I didn’t know you Dad, but I know it’s not easy to loss a love one. My prayers and thoughts are with you.

  • I want to send my condolences to my cousins for the loss of your dad. I’m sure he left this life feeling the love of his children.

  • I love you all very much,God bless you all.take care of my bff (Nancy Runkle Gallucci).

  • I see where Dave & Rick got their pretty blue eyes. Sounds as if he lived a very full and happy life. My sincere sympathies to the family, I know he will be greatly missed. God Bless and keep you all.

  • so sorry we can’t be at the services but will get thinking of you and sending prayers. He was such a sweet man and will be missed greatly.

    Love you

  • Rick, Dave, Elaine and Nancy
    I’m so sorry to hear about your father’s passing, I believe he is with the Lord and the Lord is with all of you.

  • I’m so sorry to hear that your father has passed away. Though I didn’t know him well I always felt a special fondness for him which I’m sure is because of how much I care for you. With my sincerest sympathies, Della

  • What a wonderful picture of Mr. Runkle taken I’m sure in one of his favorite places …the cockpit of an airplane!

  • Sincere condolences to everyone. Your Dad & Mom were wonderful people who raised a great, respectable family. We are proud to have you all for family & love each one of you! Dad & everyone is in our prayers. Remember the great times & love they had for everyone as memories will help you get through these trying times! We will all be together again someday…till then, they are in Heaven watching over everyone. Prayers for Dick & everyone! Dave, Karen, Jerry & Sandy Forbes

  • So sorry for your loss. I wish for you to find peace.

  • Dear Elaine and Kenny,
    I am so sorry for your loss.
    What a wonderful life Mr. Runkle lived. Wow!
    He accomplished so much.
    Love and prayers,
    Patty B.

  • Sending love and prayers to all of you. My cousins and your families. Your dad was very much loved and will always be thought of with love and respect.

  • Our thoughts and prayers are with you,

    Mike and Donna VonSteuben

  • Elaine and Family,

    My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this very difficult time.

    Linda Holveck

  • sorry for your loss, rick. my thoughts and prayers have been with you and your family