Donald J. Stecher

Donald J. Stecher, of Medford NJ, passed away unexpectedly on February 12, 2026, at the age of 86. Born on March 23, 1939, in Riverside, NJ, Don's zest for life and unwavering spirit left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Don's early life in Riverside set the stage for a lifetime of achievement and service. After graduating from Riverside High School in 1957, he served his country as a member of the United States Marine Corps and was honorably discharged as a Corporal. Don credited the Marines for giving purpose and direction to his life. He furthered his education, earning a Bachelor's degree in History from Trenton State College in 1966 and a Master's degree in the same field in 1970. His passion for learning continued as he achieved a Master's of Education from Glassboro College in 1975.

Professionally, Don was a respected and beloved educator and administrator. He began his career student teaching at Lenape High School in 1966 and went on to become a history teacher and supervisor there for eleven years. His leadership skills were recognized, and he made the transition to Cherokee High School, where he served as vice principal for nine years and then as principal from 1986 until his retirement in 2001. He was instrumental in many lives, from students and colleagues to peers and team members. Cherokee High School was better because Donald Stecher led the school community with his heart and mind. His influence went beyond the school walls, as he was the former president of the County Secondary Principal and Supervisors Association. In 1996, his excellence in leadership was acknowledged when he received the Golden Lamp Award from the association.

Don's personal life was as rich and full as his professional one. He shared 36 beautiful years of marriage with his wife, Mary Ann (nee Brindisi), and was a proud father to Joseph (Sherri), Donald Jr., and Marguerite Riley (Chuck). He was also a cherished Pop-Pop to Jessica, Samantha (Cory), Reagan, Garrett, CJ, Nikolas, Chase, Morgan, Liam, Shawn, and Haley, and a great-grandpop to Leena. Don was preceded in death by his siblings Hobart, Richard, Marguerite Malone, and Robert Stecher, but his legacy continues through his loving nieces and nephews Thom, JoAnn, David, Frannie, Kathy, Sharon, Cynthia, and Louis.

Don was an intelligent, optimistic, and spirited individual with an infectious laugh. He had the remarkable ability to light up any room, whether he was engaging with students, conversing with peers or cheering on his beloved Phillies and Eagles. His interests were diverse and brought him joy. He loved reading, especially his beloved New York Times. He was passionate about golfing with his Buckeroos at Medford Lakes Country Club, traveling the world and vacationing on Marco Island with his soulmate Mary Ann, listening to and attending the opera and dining with his 'wine guys'. In 2005, he earned his advanced degree from the London Division of Wine and Spirits Educators Trust Level 3 of which he was very proud. He had a devoted following of wine students at Gloucester County College where he taught wine courses for many years. Don was happiest being with friends and family, at home or a restaurant, eating a good meal and toasting with a great glass of wine in his hand. Don was a Mensch in the most beautiful sense of the word.

As Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, "To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children... to leave the world a bit better... to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded." By Emerson's standards, Don succeeded magnificently.

Don Stecher's life was a testament to the power of positivity, and the impact one person can have on his community. Relatives and friends are invited to his visitation on Thursday February 26 from 8:15-11:15am at Bradley Funeral Home 601 Rt. 73 South at Evesham Road. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday at 12 noon at St. Joan of Arc Church 100 Willow Bend Road, Marlton. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Don's memory to the Donald J. Stecher Memorial Scholarship Fund P.O. Box 364 Marlton NJ 08053.