Richard Benjamin Delott, age 83, of Tryon Estates, Columbus, passed peacefully on Jan. 30, 2014.

Born on Oct. 8, 1930, in Chicago, Ill., he was the loving and devoted husband of the late Glenda (nee McFarland) Delott for 56 years.

He lived in the Chicago area prior to moving to St. Joseph, Mich. and retiring to Columbus, N.C.

He graduated from Tilden Technical High School, Chicago, and obtained a B.S. in chemistry from the University of Illinois in 1954. He built a successful, international career as an innovator in the field of porcelain enameling. He started his career with Chicago Vitreous Corporation as a chemist.

While with Chicago Vitreous, he patented a one-fire process for porcelain enameling, which was widely utilized for decades.

This accomplishment led to his 25-year role as a manufacturing engineer with Whirlpool Corporation, Benton Harbor, Mich., during which he was recognized for his many valuable contributions.

He remained active professionally and in the community after retirement. He and his wife created lifetime memories, living in Shanghai, China, during his post-retirement work on a Whirlpool factory expansion.

For many years, he diligently served as a volunteer tax preparer, through AARP in Polk County.

Throughout his retirement, he served as treasurer for organizations including: Morgan Chapel Village HOA, Tryon Country Club, Tryon Estates Residents Association (TERA) and the Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC).

In 2009, he was proud to be elected to the Second Wind Hall of Fame, AARP, in recognition of a long, useful and productive life, continuing beyond retirement and a new career of service to mankind.

He is survived by two children, Darryl R. Delott of Greenville, S.C. and Dana J. Delott, of Elkridge, Md.; and two grandchildren, Hailey M. Lepski and Ashley R. Delott. He was the childhood protector of his four younger brothers, Charles, Herbert, David and Avery Delott, all of whom survive him, along with many nieces and nephews.

Dick’s family remembers him for his unwavering character, integrity, independence, devotion and intricately-plotted wit.

He will also be missed by his lifelong circle of friends established in Hyde Park, Chicago, in the 1940s.

Richard Delott will be lovingly remembered in a memorial gathering on Saturday, Feb. 22, at 3 p.m. at Tryon Estates.

Memorials may be made to the Sjogrens Syndrome Foundation, www.sjogrens.org and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, www.nationalmssociety.org.

An online guest register is available at www.mcfarlandfuneralchapel.com.