Dr. Richard Griswold DeLaney

Dr. Richard Griswold DeLaney

Dr. Richard G. DeLaney, 75, of Elizabethtown, passed away on Friday, August 19, 2016 in Hershey, PA. Known to many as “Dr. D,” he was born on Friday, November 8, 1940 in Orange, New Jersey to the late Edwin G. and Anita B. DeLaney. Upon graduating from Conestoga High School he earned a Bachelor’s degree from Gettysburg College, a Master’s degree from the Pennsylvania State University, and his degree in Veterinary Medicine from the University of Pennsylvania. It was at the University of Pennsylvania that he met the love of his life, Rosa. The two were married on November 6, 1971. Together they raised their children in Elizabethtown, PA and took great pride in Laura (Christopher Esoldo), Richard (Angela Wissing DeLaney) and Anita (Jason Grandeo). They enjoyed and spoiled five grandchildren: Christopher “CJ” Esoldo, Jr., Olivia L. & Gwendolyn E. DeLaney, Joshua L. & Dominic E. Grandeo.  He will be missed by two brothers; Dr. Donald DeLaney (Marita Cummins) of Caldwell, West Virginia and Robert DeLaney (Janet Parker DeLaney) of Lee, Maine.

He began his career as an Associate Professor at The University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine as well as a researcher in the Cardiovascular Pulmonary Division at Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. He also worked as a practicing veterinarian at a small veterinary practice in Springfield, PA. In 1989, Dr. D pursued his dream and purchased the Elizabethtown Area Animal Hospital. There he spent 27 years providing care to many dogs, cats, ferrets, rabbits, guinea pigs, goats, a few chickens, a couple of ducks, a parrot and one flying squirrel. In his spare time he liked to play with his grandchildren, to garden, to tinker on his many computers and to take care of his pets, Tracker and Amy Dawg. Most importantly he loved to spend time with his beloved wife, Rosa.   

While in veterinary school Richard was known by his classmates to be a hard-working and dedicated student. This work ethic extended into his professional career as he devoted himself to the practice of veterinary medicine. He made certain that he was always available to his clients and patients whether it was day, night, or weekend. In addition to his family and friends, he will be missed by all the furry friends who have been under his care.

Memorial Services will be held at 7 PM on Wednesday, August 24, 2016 in the Sell Chapel at Masonic Village, One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA  17022 with the Reverend A. Preston Van Deursen officiating.  Visitation will be held from 6 PM until the time of the service on Wednesday.  Private burial will be at the convenience of the family.  Arrangements have been entrusted to the Miller-Finkenbinder Funeral Home & Crematory, 130 North Market Street, Elizabethtown, PA  17022, 717-367-1543.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Dr. DeLaney’s honor to SPCA or the American Heart Association. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.MillerFuneralHome.com.                

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