Bernardus Stam

Bernardus Stam, age 81, of Claymont, Delaware passed away on Monday June 20, 2022, with his loving wife, daughter and grand-daughter, by his side. 

Born on July 8, 1940, in Amsterdam, Netherlands, to the late Bernardus Stam and Dorothea DeBoer, he survived many great struggles in his life to include the horrors of World War II and the loss of 2 siblings.

Although he lived through many struggles in his life, the greatest reward was meeting his beloved wife of 58 ½ years after becoming pen-pals.  After months of letter writing, he gained employment on the Holland American Cruise Line and would sail from Holland to New York City where he finally met the love of his life, Kathleen.  Together the couple married on July 30, 1963, and later raised three beautiful children. 

Throughout his life Bernardus enjoyed classical music, soccer and his Catholic faith.  He was known as a man of God and a devout Catholic, who later exemplified his faith and love for Christ by becoming an ordained Deacon within the Archdiocese of Philadelphia in 1993.  His first assignment was at Sts. Simon and Jude in West Chester before being transferred into the Diocese of Wilmington and later serving at St. Helena and later Resurrection Parish. 

Bernardus is preceded in death by both of his parents.  He is survived by his loving wife Kathy Stam (nee Farrell) and his children Melissa Stam of Wilmington; Erika Inman (Scott) of Wilmington and Christopher Stam (Lisa) of West Chester.  Bernardus also leaves behind his grandchildren Wyatt, Rowan, Jaden, Alex, Kristen, his brother Wilfred (Brenda); and his nephews and nieces.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, June 30, 2022, from 10am-11am at the Saint Helena Catholic Church located at 602 Philadelphia Pike, Wilmington, DE 19809.  Mass of Christian Burial will immediately follow.  Burial is private.

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