Henry De Werth

Henry “Chip” “Doc” De Werth

“One More Radar Lover Gone”.

Born to parents Henry and Ann De Werth in Butler, PA and set sail on December 4, 2024. Sailboats, Planes, and Submarines dominated a fair portion of Henry’s life. Custom homebuilding and energy efficiency design was his second career.

When Henry decided to get involved in something, he went all in. Obsession was his touchstone. Consuming information from all available sources and turning that information into reality was his strength. Henry had the unique ability to see a finished project at its inception.

A highly regarded oceanographic acoustic scientist, Henry plied his trade hunting submarines during seven years in the US NAVY and 20 years in the private sector. Doc, as he was known to his Special Projects colleagues, had a keen sense of hearing that could easily distinguish the difference between whale farts and toilets flushing on a submarine underwater. 

After leaving the Anti-Submarine Warfare community, Henry embarked upon a career as a custom home builder. He became an expert in the construction of Insulated Concrete Form (ICF) Homes. Imagine a three-story high steel reinforced Styrofoam beer cooler encased in concrete. To that, add the highest efficiency windows, doors, and systems available. The finished homes were not only sturdy, safe and healthy but beautiful inside and out.

Chip’s passion, however, was sailing. His pride and joy was “Blondie” a 38-foot cutter rigged blue water cruiser. Often seen around the waters off the East coast of Florida and a regular visitor to Green Turtle Cay, Abaco, Bahamas, Henry’s boat was always filled with guests. He loved to introduce people to the joy of sailing. Day sails, races, Atlantic crossings and months long Bahamas trips, he always had a full and well-fed crew. Henry loved to whip up the most delicious appetizers and exotic dinners for his guests even while underway. The New Years Day Junkanoo parade and the World Famous Gully Roosters band were a couple of his favorite celebrations while on Green Turtle. Sailing through the Bahama Straits with dozens of Dolphins flying around Blondie was a tremendous sight and never taken for granted. It was these moments that truly made Henry happy.

As Henry sets sail, he leaves behind his wife, Karen, son, Jake, his sister Charmaine, and Bruce, his brother. 

Henry requested burial at Sea and his wishes will be honored courtesy of the US NAVY. His last known position will be at a Latitude and Longitude to be named later.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Warrior Sailing, www.warriorsailing.org, an organization that provides maritime education and outreach for wounded, ill, and injured service members and veterans