Glen A. Thommes, 81, of Bethany Beach, Del., died July 5, 2011, of natural causes in Bethany Beach.

He was born May 11, 1930, to Anthony Thommes and Agnes Kaeker in Austin, Minn. He later married Lenore O. Namey. Glen attended the University of St. Thomas (summa cum laude) with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry. He was awarded an academic scholarship to Michigan State University, where he received his doctorate in chemistry and graduated summa cum laude. He worked for the DuPont Company, was an adjunct professor to the University of St. Thomas and played tailback for the “Tommies.”

Dr. Thommes enjoyed a 32-year career at DuPont, where he was awarded 11 US patents and directed the R&D activities of three major industrial departments: photo systems, electronics and polymer products, and organic chemicals. Following his career with DuPont, Glen stayed active by consulting and as a co-founder of PrecisionCure, LLC. Glen also served as an adjunct professor to the University of St. Thomas for graduate studies while publishing a wide variety of scientific and manufacturing articles. Glen’s service to the community included president of the St. Mary Magdalen Parish council, school board, and he and Lenore served as Eucharistic ministers to the sick. He was a man of great faith and shining example of Christian living and service. Glen was most happy when he was surrounded by his friends and his large family with a great meal, engaging debate and lots of laughter.

Glen is survived by Lenore Thommes, his wife; six children, Karen Hinman of Wilmington, Del., Lisa Coldiron of Wilmington, Del., Deidre Shinn of Wilmington, Del., Jeff Thommes of Wilmington, Del., Terriann Matejcek of Plymouth, Minn., and Susie Cull of Fanwood, N.J. Glen was the number one fan cheering at every sporting, drama and school event for his 15 grandchildren. Glen is also survived by one great-grandchild.

A memorial service will be July 9, at St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church, Wilmington, Del. Father Ronald Giannone will officiate. Interment will be at St. Joseph on the Brandywine Cemetery.