Charles Joseph Staropoli

Charles Joseph Staropoli, 85, passed away peacefully on December 18, 2025, surrounded by family. Known to all as Chuck, he was instantly recognizable by his welcoming smile, a huge hug, and laughter that filled the room. He lived with humility and compassion, guided by integrity and a deep, enduring love for family and friends.

Chuck was the beloved husband of Irene, to whom he was married for 61 years. They met as students at Hofstra University in New York on Long Island, where Chuck later earned his Master’s degree in Education. Their marriage became a lifelong partnership rooted in devotion, shared purpose, and love.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Chuck went on to earn his Doctorate from the University of West Virginia. His education shaped a career dedicated to service and leadership, as well as a lifelong love of learning and travel. Together, Chuck and Irene traveled extensively, including throughout Europe and China, experiences they deeply cherished.

Chuck served as a professor at the University of Delaware, was a published author, and later became Director of Education for New Castle County, influencing countless students, educators, and families. He also served as Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs at Wilmington University, contributing to the development of graduate programs, including the University’s Doctoral program, and supporting efforts to expand educational opportunities internationally.

Sports were a meaningful part of Chuck’s life. A Brooklyn native, he loved baseball and idolized the New York Yankees. Throughout his life, he used sports to teach teamwork, discipline, and respect, playing college football and lacrosse at Hofstra University and later coaching high school football in Danbury, Connecticut.

Faith in God and service were central to Chuck’s life. He was deeply involved with Holy Family Parish and the Catholic Diocese, generously giving his time and talents over many years.

Above all, Chuck was incredibly devoted to his family. He loved his grandchildren with his whole heart; his greatest joy was being a grandpa and supporting them in every aspect of their lives. He is survived by his wife Irene; his sons Curtis Staropoli (deceased), Scott Staropoli, and Jeremiah Staropoli; his daughters-in-love Linda, Laura, and Susan Staropoli; his grandchildren Curtis, Ryan, Sam, Ava, Anthony, Alexander, and Caitlyn Staropoli; and his (adopted) grandchildren Max and Delaney.

Chuck will be remembered for his generosity of spirit, steady guidance, and the warmth he brought into every room. His life was rooted in deep, enduring love.

A Mass of Christian Burial in celebration of Chuck’s life will be held at St. Ann’s Church, Gilpin Avenue and Union Street, Wilmington on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 10:30AM.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly invites those wishing to honor Chuck’s memory to consider a donation to Little Sisters of the Poor (wesharegiving.org) or Sunday Breakfast Mission (sundaybreakfastmission.org).

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