Darwin Gene Wika

Darwin Gene Wika, age 84, of West Chester, PA, passed away on December 30, 2025, at Crosslands in Kennett Square, PA.

He was the devoted spouse of Kathleen Schanck Wika, with whom he shared 65 years of marriage. Born in Clark, SD, Darwin was the son of Normal Wika and Marbeth Stevens Wika of Clark, SD.

Darwin graduated from South Dakota School of Mines and Technology in 1963, earning his Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering. During his college years, he was a Superior Cadet of the freshman class, ran NCAA varsity track, and was a member of Delta Sigma Phi fraternity. He also served on the Board of Control for South Dakota School of Mines while a student, and remained involved with his alma mater after graduation reflecting his lifelong commitment to education and leadership.

Professionally, Darwin dedicated 39.5 years to DuPont, where he served in a variety of capacities at locations across the United States and internationally. His assignments took him to Victoria, TX; Wilmington, DE (four times); Orange, TX (twice); Parkersburg, WV; La Place, LA; and Singapore, where he oversaw DuPont's operations in the Asia Pacific region along with Australia and New Zealand. In the final chapter of his career, Darwin served as Director of Safety, Health, and Environmental Affairs for all of DuPont, a role that underscored his commitment to workplace safety and environmental stewardship on a global scale. He retired in 2002, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, leadership, and excellence.

Darwin was deeply committed to his faith and community. As a member of St. Michael Lutheran Church in Unionville, PA, he served on the church council and the Board of Luther House in West Grove, PA, providing housing and support for seniors. His leadership extended beyond his professional life, reflecting his values of service and compassion.

Darwin is survived by his wife, Kathleen, and his three children: Anthony Wika, Kristinn Wika Fiedler (David), and Eric Wika (Tamara). He is also survived by his siblings: Darryl Wika (Carmen), Dawn Wika Van Riper (Gary), and Bruce Wika (Judy). He was predeceased by his brother, Brent Wika (Judy). Darwin's legacy lives on through his 11 grandchildren-Nicole Holt, Ashley Sanchez (Michael), Aaron Fiedler, Aimee Fiedler, Jessica Michael (Jon), Daniel Fiedler, Christopher Notti, Ryan Wika, Sean Wika, Joshua Acuna, and Jeremy Acuna-and four beloved great-grandchildren: Sasha and Anja Holt, and Avery and Zane Sanchez.

Darwin will be remembered as a committed son, husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose love and guidance shaped generations. His life was marked by professional achievement, community service, and unwavering devotion to family.

The family wishes to express their gratitude to the staff at Crosslands Firbank care facility for their dedicated and compassionate care of Darwin over the last seven and a half years of his life.

You are invited to visit with Darwin's family and friends from 10:00-11:00 am on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at St. Michael Lutheran Church 109 East Doe Run Road, Unionville, PA 19375. His memorial service will follow at 11:00 am. Inurnment will be held immediately after the service with lunch following in the fellowship hall.Contributions in Darwin's memory may be made to St. Michael Lutheran Church, P.O. Box 178, Unionville, PA 19375.

Arrangements are by Matthew Grieco of Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. (484-734-8100) of Kennett Square, PA. To view his online obituary, please visit www.griecofunerals.com