It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Frederick Mario Stella, Freddy passed away peacefully on February 9, surrounded by family. He is survived by his wife Rosanne, his 2 sisters Marie Stella and Jo Anne Baldwin and his 7 children and grandchildren, Jennifer and Joseph Resciniti and their children Angelo and Nicholas and Joseph and Lisa Stella and their daughter Lydia.

We are comforted to know that he has been reunited with so many loved ones who passed before him, including his parents Joseph and Maria Stella, numerous aunts and uncles, his sisters Etta and Rocky Stella, his brother-in-law Dan Baldwin and his best friends Tony and Michelle Parides and Kenny and Lucille Handlowitch.

Freddy was born on August 17, 1945, as the third of what would be 5 children. He grew up in Gravesend, Brooklyn, in a house filled with love, laughter, music and good food. As a child Freddy enjoyed playing sports and was a dedicated Boy Scout, who would later be inducted into the Order of the Arrow. He was a gifted athlete, who would go on to play semi-pro football, and a fan of the Brooklyn Dodgers, a loyalty he later transferred to the Mets.

Freddy lived an extraordinary life of service and generosity. He was drafted into the Army and served his country proudly in the Vietnam War. Upon returning from Vietnam. he joined the phone company and later became President of CWA Local 1109. He fought tirelessly for his members and was fearless in the face of adversity. Under his leadership the union's membership grew and members enjoyed expanded health and retirement benefits. When his tenure as president ended, he returned to the phone company and later started a company, STAR Consulting.

His retirement years have been spent in Heathrow, Florida with the love of his life, Rosanne. He has enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, of whom he was immensely proud.

Freddy was young at heart and was quick to crack a joke, which he enhanced with his incredibly expressive face. He was the great protector of his family and anyone whom he loved. He was warm and friendly, and his door was always open for a chat or a drink. He loved life, his family, Frank Sinatra, the NY Rangers and Army football.

They say that "all gave some, some gave all". Freddy was 100% disabled due to his time in Vietnam. He believed in expanding rights and benefits for veterans so that our soldiers and their families can begin to be repaid for their sacrifice.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the Wounded Warrior Project in Fred's name.
Service times listed below.

Rest in Peace Frederick Stella, we will miss you more than words can say.