Carl W. Stukey, Jr.

On Thursday, August 6, 2020, our world lost a most unique, generous, and loved man when the insidious COVID-19 disease claimed another victim. Carl Welcome Stukey Junior, beloved husband of Rosanne, cherished brother, treasured uncle, and loyal friend decided it was time to move on from this earth to the heavenly kingdom of his Father. Carl Jr. was the first born child to Carl and Gladys Stukey, born in Jacksonville, Florida on May 4, 1941. He enjoyed celebrating two birthdays every year, and if you knew him well, he would be happy to explain that and a few other things as well. He was born with an adventuresome spirit, and a fiery passion for life that matched the intensity of his red hair. From the very beginning, Carl showed a passion for life, a most generous nature, and a never ending concern for those less fortunate than himself. The concern and love that he showed for animals and people alike may have set him apart from others, yet endeared him to so many who knew him well. He had a way of doing things his way and always on his own terms. He married Rosanne Scharag on October 31, 1981 (yes, it was his idea to get married on Halloween). She was the love of his life, and together they enjoyed many adventures, conquered challenges, and made a simple, but loving life together. They enjoyed their pets, Benji, Duchess, Skunky, etc. Their pets were their kids and were treated quite well.He loved taking his pet rabbit, Skunky, for long walks in the neighborhood, and was quite proud to show the little guy off to anyone who was interested. Carl loved the outdoors. He particularly enjoyed Glacier and Yellowstone Parks. He spent a couple summers driving the yellow buses in Yellowstone, where he relished being able to tell his passengers about all the intricacies of the park. He hiked over 1500 miles one summer in Glacier Park, and continued his love affair of the outdoors throughout his life. He had many unusual adventures and travels in his life, and often recalled his vagabond days in Amsterdam, South Florida and other ports that were a part of his life journey. He was a station chief for the United States Naval Reserve from which he retired. His time in the Navy found him serving on the aircraft carrier the USS Bonhomme Richard, working in New Jersey, Boise, Milwaukee, and Seattle. He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl Sr. and Gladys Jones Stukey; brother, Samuel Maxwell Stukey; and four nephews, Tate Hess, Josh Niswanger, Tim Bartline, and Mike Zipple. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Rosanne; six brothers and sisters, Linda Niswanger, Bonni (Jim) Hess, Carol (Dave) Aure, Dave (Terry) Stukey, Steven Stukey, and Tami (Rick Aiken) Stukey. In addition, he leaves a number of nieces and nephews; and great-nieces and nephews who he cared for deeply and who will miss their “Dear Uncle Carl.” Carl was a very spiritual man and truly lived the teachings of Jesus Christ. He entered the Catholic faith later in life, and was baptized. It is often said that God works in mysterious ways, but it was quite evident that God was often working through his ever faithful servant, Carl. Carl believed in celebrating life and in giving generously to those in need. He thought nothing of driving a car with broken windshield wipers, and yet sending a large check to someone he did not know who he might have read about who lost their house in a fire. He was one of the most selfless, compassionate, and giving people one could ever meet. The number of people whose lives were so positively touched by his goodness will probably never be known. In accordance to Carl’s nature, and to his wishes, a formal funeral service will not be held at this time. To honor his name and memory, we would ask each of you to remain vigilant in staying safe and healthy. In lieu of flowers, we would ask that you give to the charity of your choice or perform a random act of kindness while thinking about Carl. So we close by saying good bye good husband, brother, uncle, and friend. It’s time to take your esteemed place in God’s Heavenly Kingdom. You definitely earned your wings for all the good you did in your short time here on earth. Fly high and proud. We Love You! At Carl’s request, we will not be holding a service.