Christopher Stelmach

Christopher Stelmach of Warrenton, NC formerly of Oakland, NJ passed away on Sunday, May 10, 2020. Chris lived in his native NJ for over 60 years before making NC his new home a few years ago. Kip, as he was sometimes called, grew up in River Edge, NJ and graduated from River Dell High School in 1972. He went on to earn degrees in both Ornamental Horticulture and Botany from Delaware Valley University and Rochester Institute of Technology. He was lucky enough to have a career in a field he was passionate about, the growth, care and management of flowering plants. In addition to working at Rohsler's Nursery in Allendale, NJ for many years, he enjoyed growing vibrant, colorful flowers in his own greenhouse and sharing their beauty with others. He loved nothing more than a day outside with his hands in the dirt! Chris was a former ice hockey player & an avid NY Rangers fan. He enjoyed going to games with his son whenever he could and debating with him about which team was better, the Devils or Rangers. Chris was a faithful parishioner of Jacksonville Chapel. He was also a proud and active member of Alcoholics Anonymous for almost 30 years. He regularly attended several meetings weekly while living in NJ. He kept up the same tradition after his move to NC, always wanting to make connections and share in the comfort of togetherness with fellow members. He was a fiercely independent, strong-willed and resilient man. He never let the limitations he suffered as a result of a stroke in his early 40s get in the way of his plans. He was determined to do what he wanted on his own terms, and thats just what he did! His brave journey with cancer over the past two years was a testament to his inner strength. He will be greatly missed but kept alive through our thoughts and memories. Chris is survived by his 2 children, daughter, Krista (Matthew) Cioletti of Oakland, NJ and son, Jeffrey (Megan) Stelmach of Raleigh, NC. He also leaves behind 5 grandchildren, Matthew, Charlotte and Andrew Cioletti and Reagan and Vincenzo Stelmach. Also surviving are his half brother, Anthony (Mary Lou) Orwin, cousin, Mae Stelmach, sister-in-law, Vickie Stelmach and several nieces and nephews. Chris is predeceased by his parents, George and Thirza Stelmach and two brothers, Greg (Vickie) Stelmach and Robert Stelmach. There will be a private memorial for him in NC and a memorial in NJ will be scheduled in the future. For those who would like, donations may be made in his honor to the Kessler Foundation: https://kesslerfoundation.org/giving/donate Events Details are pending.