Stanley Ayres Wasielewski

Born on February 21, 1936, in Jersey City, New Jersey, Stanley grew up with a deep respect for faith, hard work, and fairness—values instilled in him by his parents, whom he fondly remembered working with the Salvation Army. From a young age, Stanley dreamed of being a cowboy, a spirit of adventure that stayed with him throughout his life.

Stanley answered the call to serve his country, embarking on a distinguished career in the United States Air Force, where he retired with the rank of Master Sergeant. One of his proudest achievements was earning the Good Conduct Medal, a testament to his integrity and dedication. He retained a vivid memory of his time stationed in Greenland on Project HIRAN, testing radar systems in extreme conditions and conducting aerial missions over the ice caps.

Following his military service, Stanley enjoyed a successful second career as a manufacturing manager with Essex and SCI, where he was known for his work ethic and patient leadership. He believed deeply in teaching by example.

On November 1, 1957, Stanley married the love of his life, Julia Ann Davis. Their enduring marriage was marked by deep affection, mutual respect, and plenty of laughter. As he once said with a twinkle in his eye, “I love her with all my heart, but she sure is a pain in my neck.”

Stanley was a man of strong faith who lived life one day at a time, striving always to do no harm and treat others fairly. He found joy in the simple things—corny jokes, old cartoons, collecting antique wrenches.

He hoped to be remembered as someone who always tried to be fair. His life stands as a quiet, steady example of humility, strength, and love.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Julia Ann. He leaves behind his loving children: Connie (Tom) Wickline, Leslie (Jeff) Amerine, Phyllis (Al) Hubbard, and Laura (Jim) Vincent. He was a proud grandfather to Scott Wickline, Tracy (Ryan) Stewart, Lyndee (Chase) McClung, Julia (Brandon) Hughes, Kayla (Garrett) Tucker, Ally (Haden) Holmes, and Kyle (Blake) Golden. His legacy continues through his cherished great-grandchildren: Eli, Caleb, Audrey, Emma, Kyndel, Kamryn, Jack, Beckett, Mills, Dutton, Ellie, and Gray. He is also survived by his five brothers: Fred Wasielewski, Charles (Margaret) Wasielewski, Frank (Lois) Wasielewski, Art (Donna) Wasielewski, and Paul (Stacey) Wasielewski, as well as two brothers-in-law, Bill Davis and Bruce (Rosemary) Davis.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Stanley and Florence Wasielewski; his in-laws, Ward and Mattie Mayetta Davis; his sister, Judy Ratcliff; and sisters-in-law, Patricia Wasielewski, Phyllis Davis, and Marie Wasielewski.

Visitation will be held at Valhalla Funeral Home on Sunday, May 4, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. A funeral service will follow at 12:00 PM, with military honors to be rendered at the graveside.

Stanley leaves behind a legacy of honor, love, and laughter. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know him.