WILMINGTON — Chet L. Stukes, 53, beloved son, brother, husband, PePaw and friend, left his earthly family to join his heavenly family Tuesday, March 14, 2017. He was born in Wilmington, N.C., Nov. 8, 1963, to John and Catherine Stukes.
Chet was an avid sports fan, especially football, and was a die-hard Redskins fan. He played many sports throughout his childhood, football being his favorite. He graduated in 1982 from New Hanover High. He then joined the U.S. Navy and was a part of the Special Forces, allowing him to travel the world many times.
He married his high school sweetheart, Beth. After he left the Navy, Chet worked for the NHC School System for seven years, when he discovered his passion for landscaping. He began Complete Lawn Service in 1994. While raising four children, Chet took classes to further his knowledge of his profession and passion by becoming a certified plantsman. In 1996, he joined ILA 1426. In order to become more diverse in the local, he went back to school for HVAC and received his diploma in that area.
He will always be remembered for his beautiful smile and contagious laugh. Being a one-of-a-kind man, Chet put God and his family first. Chet was an amazing friend, the kind that was there for you, listened to you, and there to help you when needed.
Surviving are his wife, Beth; and children, Chet Stukes II, Catherine Meares (Kenneth), Christan Stukes and Brent Stukes, all of Wilmington; two grandsons, Kaden and Koda Meares; parents, John and Catherine Stukes; sisters, Stephanie Persons and Rosalind Stukes; and brothers, Larry Stukes and John Stukes Jr.; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life ceremony will be held at 2 p.m., Sunday, March 19, at the Cooperative Extension and Arboretum.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lower Cape Fear Hospice Foundation, 1414 Physicians Drive, Wilmington, NC 28401.