Obituary

Gertrude Mary Stumpf, matriarch and cornerstone of her family, passed away peacefully on Staten Island, NY, on August 7, 2023, following a brief illness. Born in the Bronx on October 8,1930, Gertrude lived a fulfilling life that was brimming with love, faith, and service to others. She was a graduate of St. Barnabas High School in the Bronx. Upon graduation, she began a career with New York Telephone Co., where she worked until the birth of her first child. She moved to Staten Island with her young family in 1957. In the early 1970’s, she returned to the workforce, serving in the rectory of Monsignor Farrell High School. She then began a career as a bookkeeper at First Investor’s. Gertrude was an active member of her parish, Our Lady Queen of Peace. She served as a CCD instructor, instilling in young minds the virtues of faith and compassion. She was also a member of the Rosary and Altar Society, a Eucharistic Minister, and a committed member of the OLQP Mother’s Club for 24 years. Her strong faith was a testament to her character, serving as an inspiration to all who knew her. Gertrude was the cherished wife of Thomas W. Sr. for 72 years, and a loving mother to Thomas Jr., William(Kathleen), Mary Joanne Kling(Anthony), Eileen Devereux(William), John(Joann), Brian(Lisa), Anne O’Connor(Michael), Jean Fricano(Augustino), Kevin(Susan), and Colleen Bennett(Timothy). She was also a doting grandmother to 27 grandchildren and a great grandmother to 30 great grandchildren. She is survived by her very special sister-in-law, Barbara Stumpf. Gertrude was predeceased by her sister, Josephine Gibbons, and her sweet granddaughter, April Ann Stumpf. Gertrude had a unique ability to make each person with whom she interacted feel seen and heard. When she sat with you, it was as if you were the only person in the room. Her interest was sincere and genuine. She celebrated each of her family’s religious, educational, and sporting accomplishments with unmatched enthusiasm. Gertrude was a woman of exceptional character, whose life was a testament to her values of faith, love, and service.

Visitation is at Hanley’s Funeral Home on Friday, August 11, from 2-4 and 7-9. Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady Queen of Peace on Saturday, August 12, at 9:30a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the John C. Chipura Foundation to benefit the care of John Hudson Dilgen.