William P. Stenz

With heartfelt sorrow we unfortunately announce the passing of William “Buddy” Stenz, age 90, of Wilmington, NC (formerly of Bogota, NJ), on November 17, 2023.

Buddy was born in New York City on January 30, 1933, in the neighborhood of Hell’s Kitchen. He was the youngest of five children born to William and Eva Stenz. Buddy worked as a longshoreman for 47 years for the New York Shipping Association, both prior to and following his service with the US Navy during the Korean War (1952-1956). In 1957 Buddy met the love of his life, Dolores Soltes, whom he would marry in June of 1958. They recently celebrated their 65^th wedding anniversary. During their time together they would raise a family, first in Brooklyn, NY, then in Bogota, NJ. They were blessed with four children.

After retiring in 1996, Buddy and Dolores would relocate to Wilmington, NC, with many winters spent and lifelong friendships made in Puerto Rico. Buddy was active within the community of Brittany Lakes. He could always be seen tinkering around the yard and working in his workshop. He enjoyed fishing as well as telling stories of his life experiences. He enjoyed the summers with his children and grandchildren visiting. He could often be seen sitting in his garage waving to all who passed by. His family coined him “the unofficial greeter of Brittany Lakes”.

Buddy is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Dolores “Dorie”, daughters, Susan (Bob), Doreen (John), Donna (Eddie), and son, Gary (Shannon), along with his grandchildren, Bryan (Jordyn), Jennifer, Zachary, Deanna, Christopher, Julia, Kaitlyn, Brittany and Matthew. He also leaves behind his loving Maltese, Sophie and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Buddy is predeceased by his three sisters, Dorothy, Evelyn, Dolly and his brother, Sonny.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, November 21, at St. Mark Catholic Church, 1011 Eastwood Road, Wilmington, 28403.

After cremation, a memorial service and burial will take place in NJ at a time and date to be announced. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to the following organizations: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and/or Wounded Warrior Project.

Funeral Arrangements are entrusted to Wilmington Funeral & Cremation.  Please leave condolence messages for Buddy’s family on his Tribute Wall at www.wilmingtoncares.com