Charles Frederick Stehman

Dr. Charles Frederick Stehman, 80, of Wilmington, passed away peacefully on January 14, 2025, with his wife by his side. He was born on June 4, 1944, in Dayton, Ohio, to Dr. Carlyle J. Stehman and Ursula Hample Stehman. He graduated from Antioch College, Duke University and Dalhousie University with degrees in Geology, a subject he loved throughout his life. Charlie also loved Prospect, Nova Scotia, where he lived while attending Dalhousie. Charlie worked as a consultant, university teacher, and finally groundwater supervisor with the NC Division of Water Quality.
Charlie had many interests and friends, including his four black labradors. He enjoyed sailing, flying kites, skiing, tennis, music and storytelling. Charlie loved to bring people together to enjoy a good time. Cooking was a household event for these gatherings.
Charlie leaves behind his wife of 54 years, Dr. Joan D. Willey, one brother Dr. Robert Stehman, two children Joseph Stehman and Darcie Pettigrew, five grandchildren, two sisters-in-law, one brother-in-law, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Carl Stehman, and granddaughter Lillian Pettigrew.
The family would like to thank all the caregivers at Brookdale Senior Living Wilmington, especially Cristina and Thom.
A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.
Memorials may be made to Online condolences can be made at www.wilmingtoncares.com. Funeral arrangements were trusted to Wilmington Funeral & Cremation - Wilmington Chapel, 1535 S. 41st Street Wilmington, NC 28403, (910) 791-9099. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Charles, please visit our floral store.