About
Stephen Wilz Obituary
Retired Air Force Major
Steve Wilz passed away on December 28, 2025, surrounded by his family at Beebe Hospital.
Stephen was born on January 31, 1947, the son of Stephen and Dorothy Wilz of South New Jersey. Steve was the oldest of seven children.
After graduating from Rutgers he taught school for a short time and joined the Air Force as an officer. He retired as an Air Force Major. Steve retired in 1994 after 20 years of serving. His career included assignments in Nebraska, Ohio, California, Washington State and Geilenkirchen, Germany.
Steve had many passions; a few are playing poker, enjoying time with family and friends at his home on the Indian River Bay. He loved entertaining and was an excellent cook, and a master mixologist of any cocktail you could think of.
He loved researching antiques and cherished his collection. Steve was devoted to his significant other, Barbara, and devoted to his son Jason.
Steve was predeceased by his parents, Stephen and Dorothy Wilz, and a son, Stephen Wilz III. He is survived by the love of his life, Barbara Ayres; son Jason Wilz of Millsboro; brother Ted Wilz, wife Sandra, of Florida; brother Jon Wilz, wife Meryl, of New Jersey; sister Joanne Wilz Doe of Colorado; sister Marie Wilz Gardner of New Jersey; brother David Wilz, wife Robin, of New Jersey; brother Michael Wilz, wife Lorraine, of New Jersey. He leaves behind many nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind Barbara's children and grandchildren who loved "Mr. Steve" like a step-father and step-grandfather.
Steve will be fondly missed by all who knew him.
A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Cool Spring Presbyterian Church, 28843 Log Cabin Hill Road, Lewes, DE 19958. A viewing will take place from 12:00–1:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Cool Spring Presbyterian Church, Lewes, DE.
Please sign the tribute wall located on this website.
FLORIST NOTE: PLEASE HAVE ALL FLOWERS DELIVERED ON JANUARY 2, 2026 BY 3PM. TO OUR LEWES LOCATION.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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