Darrell Earlene Louder Sr., 74

WESTFIELD, Mass. - Darrell Earlane Louder Sr. was taken into God's arms on Sunday, Feb. 24, 2008. He was 74.

He was born in Vandalia, Ill., to Dr. and Mrs. Earl Louder.

Darrell was a loving husband, father and grandfather, who always put his family before himself.

Darrell led an accomplished life, graduating with a master's of science from Southern Illinois University.

He began his career as a fisheries biologist and became chief of fisheries for the North Carolina Wildlife for the state of Delaware's Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control.

Darrell published more than 40 scientific and technical articles.

In 1977, he founded Python Enterprises Inc., which became one of the largest grocery store remodeling companies, servicing throughout the East Coast, and was even featured on "60 Minutes."

Darrell was a member of the Christian and Missionary Alliance Church in Dover, Del.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Shirley; three children, Darrell Louder Jr., Shirley Holland and Sandra Louder; eight grandchildren, Darrell Louder III, Michael Louder, Tiffany Royland, Daniel Louder, Christina Bentancourt, Dianna Louder, Nicholas Louder and Dillan Louder; and two great-grandchildren, Dorean Dale Neron and MaJessa Louder.

The funeral will be 10 a.m. Friday in the Firtion-Adams Funeral Service, 76 Broad St., Westfield, with calling hours from 5-7 p.m. Thursday.

Burial will follow in Pine Hill Cemetery.