Anthony Theodore Messick, Townsends retiree

Anthony “Ted” Theodore Messick of Millsboro passed away Monday, May 9, 2022, at home in the care of his family and Accent Care Hospice. He was 72 years old.

Ted was born July 15, 1949, in Millsboro, to the late Clifford U. Messick Sr. and Dorothy W. Burton Messick.  In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by a daughter, Barbara Jean Messick in 1973; as well as four siblings, Shirley Pettit, Clifford U. Messick Jr., Richard Messick and Bonnie J. Messick.

He graduated from Millsboro High School and from Vo Tech as a diesel mechanic in 1968.   Ted was a member of the Army National Guard, Indian River Volunteer Fire Co. and Mid Sussex
Rescue Squad. He worked at the Sunoco Station in Lewes for many years as their head mechanic.  Ted retired from Townsends, where he worked as a maintenance supervisor for 22 years. In his spare time, Ted enjoyed hunting, camping, riding his motorcycle, dancing and fixing things.  He was known for his bigger-than-life personality and loved to have a good time.   He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend who will be dearly missed.

Ted is survived by his devoted wife of 52 years, Susan Messick of Millsboro; two daughters, Bonnie Gillett (Evan) of Westminster, Md., and Kimberly Messick of Millsboro; one brother, Edward B. Messick (Barbara) of Millsboro; and one sister, Loretta Messick of Millsboro.  He also leaves behind two grandchildren, Tony Messick of Millsboro and Bethany Gillett of Westminster; as well as one great-granddaughter, Lakelyn Goodwin. Ted is also survived by nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

A viewing will be held from 2 to 4 p.m., Saturday, May 14, at Watson Funeral Home, 211 S. Washington St., Millsboro. Interment will be private.

Letters of condolence may be emailed via watsonfh.com.