Henry Kraszewski
August 31, 1925 - November 29, 2018
With sadness we announce the sudden home passing of the last “East Side” Kraszewski, Henry “Hank”, age 93, of Bear, DE, on November 29, 2018.
Born on August 31, 1925 and raised in Wilmington, DE by polish immigrant parents, Joseph and Helen (Kulakowska). Henry was educated in Wilmington and then the US Army during WWII. His tours included Africa, Italy, France and Germany where he became a combat Purple Heart recipient. After the war he was employed at Electric Hose & Rubber Co. for over 30 years until the plant closed, while there he met his future wife, Hettie. He became very active with the company’s ARA-planning parties and picnics. He was a great fast pitch softball pitcher, horseshoe player and bowler, competing in many tournaments. After the “Hose” he began employment at the University of DE as a Fireman in the Boiler Room until retirement in 1990, making lifelong friends from his many years of employment. Hank enjoyed a good laugh, music, singing, dancing, sports and the slots. He will always be remembered for his generous soul, spoiling his children and grandchildren. Hank looked forward to his annual trip with the Stadter’s to pick up their Christmas tree and his Friday night visits with the Wolfe’s after the slots.
He is survived by his loving wife, Hettie (Clifton) of 64 years; daughters, Vicy Wolfe (Robert L.) and Tracy Stadter (Robert L.); beloved grandchildren, Robert J. Wolfe, Malinda, Robert H., Jack and Grace Stadter all of DE; and many other family and dear friends. Hank was preceded by his parents, Joseph and Helen and siblings, Stella, Josephine, Walter, Alexander, Helen, Martha and Florence.
Our family would like to thank his home caregivers Akua, Fatmata and Ade for all of the help and loving care extended to Henry during his time with dementia. Also Corp. S. Lowman, officer Ferraro and the first responders for their help and kindness-May God Bless You All.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 12 pm until 1 pm on Friday, December 7, 2018, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 1000 North DuPont Parkway, New Castle, DE, with a funeral service to begin at 1 pm. Interment will follow in Gracelawn Memorial Park, 2220 North DuPont Parkway, New Castle, DE.
Donna Carawan "Lynn Thompson"
Hank, you and Norwood were always like a second father’s while Vicy, Donna, I were growing up and trying to stay out of trouble. Our families spent many years of friendship with lots of singing, dancing and making many fond memories. You will be missed and I know always loved.
Chuck and Chris Emmons
Vicy and Bob – We are saddened to hear about your father. Our sincere condolences to you and your family. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Chuck and Chris Emmons
Jack Connolly
Dear Hettie,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I was very sorry to read about Hank’s passing, but was very happy that I was able to call him my friend. I will never forget our many years together at “The Hose.” Please accept my deepest sympathy and sincere condolences.
Sherry Pendergrass
Sad to hear about Uncle Hanks passing.Thoughts an prayers to Aunt Hettie an my cousins. Love you all.
Andrew Parag
I’m so sorry to hear the loss of Hank. Robert Wolfe truly looked up to his grandfather Hank. Hanks name came up every time we hung out and I know he was a big part of moulding my best friend. After reading the obituary I can see Hank taught Wolfie a lot. Thank you Hank. I can’t ask for a better friend.