1942 - 2023
OBITUARY
Gerhard Peter Stoetzel 80, of Poughkeepsie, NY passed away peacefully on March 26, 2023 in Vero Beach, FL with his family by his side.
Gerhard was born in Sterbfritz, Germany on May 2, 1942, son of late Werner and Margarethe Stoetzel.
Gerhard married Robin Wallace on August 16, 1992 in Wappingers Falls, NY, who is survived at home.
Gerhard attended a trade school in Germany to study masonry. He immigrated to the United States in October 1957 to pursue the American Dream; the land of opportunity. He moved to Dutchess County in 1960 and worked for the Wappingers Central School District until his retirement in 1997.
Over the years, Gerhard cooked at many restaurants and owned his own catering business.
Many organizations in the area benefited from his love of cooking. As a charter member of the Wappingers Falls Elks Club, Gerhard could be found in the kitchen for many dinners and fundraisers.
As a 30 year member of Germania of Poughkeepsie, Gerhard was a board member as well as the Chairperson for the kitchen. This included cooking dinners, cooking for festivals or teaching his skills to other members to ensure the continuity of the club for the future.
Gerhard’s love for the NY Mets was well known to all who knew him. He frequented spring training in Port St. Lucie, FL for over 25 years where he was a member of the NY Mets booster club.
Gerhard is survived by his brother in laws, Robert Wallace and Thomas Wallace (Barbara), sister in laws, Karen Beyer and Diane Surman. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews, and many close relatives in Georgia and throughout Germany. Melissa Wagner, his “adopted” sister and John Paul Avital, who can always be found helping Gerhard on the newest project and adventures.
Gerhard was involved in many organizations and business ventures that allowed him to have many lifelong friends.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation @
Calling hours will be Friday May 12, 2023 from 4:00pm until 7:00pm at Delehanty Funeral Home, 64 East Main St, Wappingers Falls, NY 12590.
VISITATION
Friday, May 12
4:00 - 7:00 PM
Delehanty Funeral Home
64 East Main Street, Wappingers Falls, NY
MEMORIAL SERVICE
Friday, May 12
6:00 PM
Delehanty Funeral Home
64 East Main Street, Wappingers Falls, NY
Private Cremation