Theodore "Ted" C. Kempski, 84, of Elkton, MD passed away on Sunday, March 23, 2025. Born in Wilmington, DE on April 8, 1940, he was the son of the late Theodore T. and Margaret Tessein Kempski.

A native of Wilmington, DE, Ted was a standout athlete at Salesianum School. As the quarterback, he led the Sals to their first undefeated season in 1957, guiding what is considered one of the most talented football teams in the school's storied history. A first-team All-State selection, he was named to multiple prep All-America teams and was honored as the MVP of the Blue-Gold All-Star game. In addition to football, Ted excelled in basketball as a starting point guard and in baseball as a pitcher for the Sals. He also showcased his pitching talent with the Durney Post American Legion team and in the Wilmington Semi-Pro League, playing for Defiance, St. Anthony, and Brooks. His exceptional football abilities earned him a recruitment to the University of Virginia by future NFL Hall of Fame coach Don Shula, who was an assistant coach at the time. Ted later transferred to the University of Delaware, where he continued his collegiate football career.

Ted dedicated more than half a century to the University of Delaware, leaving an enduring legacy as both a player and coach. As a two-year starting quarterback in 1961-62, he led the Blue Hens to a Middle Atlantic Conference title and the Lambert Cup in 1962 under Hall of Fame head coach Dave Nelson. After coaching stints at Marshall and George Washington, he returned to his alma mater in 1968, serving as an assistant coach and offensive coordinator for 34 years under Hall of Famer Tubby Raymond. His remarkable tenure made him the longest-serving assistant coach in school history, shaping generations of Delaware football players.

During his tenure at the University of Delaware, Ted played a pivotal role in shaping record-setting offenses that consistently ranked among the nation's best in rushing and scoring. His leadership contributed to national championships in 1971, 1972, and 1979, as well as four national runner-up finishes, 16 NCAA Tournament appearances, and eight conference titles. Under his guidance, the Blue Hens amassed an impressive record of 292-109-3. His impact on Delaware football is evident in the 16 UD Athletics Hall of Fame members who played offense under his coaching.

Ted was a renowned expert on the Wing-T offense, authoring five books on the subject and becoming one of the nation's leading football clinic speakers. His dedication to the sport was recognized in 2008 when he received the American Football Coaches Association Outstanding Achievement Award for his significant contributions to football. In recognition of his lasting impact, he was inducted into the Delaware Sports Museum and Hall of Fame in 2010 and the University of Delaware Athletics Hall of Fame in 2015.

After retiring from coaching, Ted continued his service to the University of Delaware as a special assistant to the Athletic Director until 2010. He earned both his bachelor's degree (1963) and master's degree (1965) from the University of Delaware. In recognition of his contributions to the sport, he was awarded an honorary degree from the University of Nuevo León in Monterrey, Mexico, in 1988.

Beyond his remarkable career, Ted was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who cherished time with his family, who will forever hold his memory in their hearts. His love, guidance, and unwavering support enriched the lives of those closest to him. Whether sharing stories from his coaching days, offering words of wisdom, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with loved ones, Ted's presence was a source of strength and warmth.

Survivors include his loving wife of 35 years, Catherine "Cathy" M. Kempski; his children, Daniel Kempski (Wendy Wolf), Wilmington, DE, and Margaret "Peggy" Rambo-Biddle (Patrick), Elkton, MD; grandchildren; Katelyn Kempski (Jake Schneider), Kelley Leadingham (Mark), Kendall Cairns, Zachary Biddle, Maggie Biddle, Courtney Whalen, who was raised as Ted and Cathy's daughter (Alan Worrall), and Johnny Whalen; and great-grandchildren, Charlotte Leadingham, Addilyn Worrall, Charleigh Worrall, Alan Worrall, and Naima Whalen.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Eve Roberts Kempski; his sister, Margaret "Peggy" Abrams; and his daughter, Janeen Rambo-Whalen.

Funeral service will be held 4 PM, Thursday, March 27, 2025 at Hicks Home for Funerals, 103 W. Stockton Street, Elkton, MD 21921, with visitation beginning at 2 PM. Interment will be private in Cherry Hill Methodist Cemetery, Cherry Hill, MD.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the University of Delaware Athletic Fund at 631 S. College Avenue, Bob Carpenter Center- Room 239, Newark, DE 19716.