June 23, 2005--Albert Chirnside, 81, of Wilmington, died in his sleep March 3, at Forwood Manor after a long illness with Parkinson’s disease.

He received his bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from UD in 1949.

Born in Pawtucket, R.I., and raised in New England, Mr. Chirnside attended the University of New Hampshire, where he played football. He took a leave from college to serve in the Army Air Corps during World War II.

After graduating from UD, he began a long career with the DuPont Co., working in marketing and textile fibers.

Mr. Chirnside was an active member of St. Albans Episcopal Church and sang for more than 20 years in the choir. He helped found the Delaware Track and Field/Sports Club, officiating in many major relays and competitions earning a masters title as track official. He was a member and past president of the Delaware Blue Hen Touch Down Club. He also taught ballroom dancing at the YMCA for Parents without Partners, coached women's softball for DuPont's "Fiber Fillies", and enjoyed and volunteered in local sporting events from football and UD women's field hockey to LPGA golfing events.

He was married for 57 years to UD alumna Sally Dodge Chirnside, who died Oct. 25, 2004.

Mr. Chirnside is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Rob and Dr. Anastasia Chirnside; his daughter, Laura Lane Schuster; and his four grandchildren, Nathaniel and Katie Lane Chirnside, and Ali and Kelly Schuster; a nephew, John Pierce, and his wife, Yvonne; and his brother-in-law, Burke Pierce.

A memorial service was held March 12 at St. Albans Episcopal Church in Wilmington.

Memorial contributions may be sent to the Parkinson's Educational Program of Delaware, c/o Edwin D. Carpenter-Secretary, 1228 Heather Lane, Wilmington, DE 19803; or to St. Albans Episcopal Church, 913 Wilson Rd., Wilmington, DE 19803.