Stephen Randall Aldrich

Stephen R. Aldrich, 1931-2024

Stephen R. Aldrich, who enjoyed a long career with DuPont and was active in church and civic organizations throughout his retirement, died on June 3, 2024, in Venice, Florida. He was 92.

The youngest of five children of Daniel and Marion Aldrich, Steve was born on July 9, 1931, in Providence, Rhode Island. He earned a chemical engineering degree from the University of Rhode Island, where he also was president of his fraternity. He served proudly as a lieutenant in the U.S. Army Chemical Corps in Korea. He then embarked on a 36-year career with DuPont, mostly as a production manager at multiple U.S. facilities before his promotion to a global manufacturing role at corporate headquarters in Wilmington, Delaware.

Soon after retiring in 1988, Steve and his wife Sandy moved to Florida and enjoyed a new season of life in Sebring, North Port, and finally Venice. A natural leader, Steve served as a church elder and taught numerous Sunday school and Bible classes. He volunteered with Rotary International and the Association for Retarded Citizens. An enthusiastic and competitive tennis player, he was also active in various tennis associations. 

Steve never met a stranger and, with his Rhode Island accent intact, enjoyed chatting and engaging with people wherever he went.

He leaves his wife of 56 years, Sandy Aldrich; children Steve Aldrich Jr. (Sallie) of Montgomery, Texas, Bill Aldrich (Marta) of Franklin, Tenn., John Aldrich (Julie) of Cadiz, Ky., and Carolyn Miller of Kennett Square, Penn.; seven grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Steve is preceded in death by siblings Daniel Aldrich Jr., Robert Aldrich, John Aldrich, and Eleanor Dodge.

A public Celebration of Life will be held at noon on Saturday, June 29, at Jacaranda Trace, where Steve enjoyed his final years. A private burial will be held at Sarasota National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to your favorite charity.