Longtime economic development director Rick Dettmer passes

The Enquirer is reporting that Rick Dettmer, 57, was found dead at his home Monday, just four months after he retired a 28-year career as Norwood’s director of community development. The cause of death has not yet been determined, and funeral arrangements have not been made yet.

Mr. Dettmer is credited with being instrumental in bringing about Norwood’s financial rebound following the 1987 closing of the General Motors plant by persuading developers to build Central Parke in 1990. That was the first of many commercial and office projects he helped bring to the City under both Republican- and Democratic-controlled administrations.

We send our condolences to his surviving family members, which include his sister Kathy Mumper and her husband councilperson John Mumper and to his brothers Larry, John, and Roger.