Stanley F. Gauss—devoted husband, proud father, expert grill-master, Vietnam vet, and a man who could fix just about anything (except maybe a leaky faucet on the first try)—passed peacefully at home in Browns Mills, NJ, on July 21, 2025, at the age of 77.

Born in Corning, New York, on March 28, 1948, Stanley's life was marked by service, strength, and a sharp sense of humor that never left him—not even in the hardest of times. He served as a Sergeant (E6) in the U.S. Army and fought in the jungles of Vietnam, returning home to build a life grounded in hard work, loyalty, and faith.

He found his calling in the kitchen—running mess halls at Fort Dix, serving guests at the historic White Hill Mansion, and later sharing laughter and meals with staff and patients at Deborah Heart and Lung Center. His food brought people together—but it was the stories, jokes, and deep compassion behind the meals that made him unforgettable.

Whether he was clocking in at 4:00 a.m. or working late into the night in a restaurant kitchen, Stanley's devotion to his family never wavered. He somehow always found time to coach baseball (which he loved), cheer at school events, and pack the family into the car for simple joys—like a Sunday trip to Columbus Market. His work ethic was unmatched, but his presence at home was what truly defined him.

Stanley was predeceased by his loving parents, Jeanette and Stanley, and his sister Pat—no doubt already reunited and enjoying a heavenly family dinner (with Stanley manning the stove).

He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Nancy, who stood by him through life's wild ride; his sister Laura and her husband Wendell; his two sons, Stanley (and wife Gina) and Robert—affectionately known as Robbie (and wife Tammy); and his grandchildren: Sean (28), Trey (26), Timothy (26), Anthony (26), Evan (20), Peyton (18), Ryan (18), and Madalynne (15). He also leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and well-timed dad jokes that live on through many nieces and nephews.

Though he stood an imposing 6'4" and carried the discipline of a soldier, Stanley's love was even bigger than his stature. No matter what he was going through, he never lost his sense of humor. Whether in a hospital bed, a kitchen, or a backyard with his grandkids, he had a way of putting others at ease—often with a one-liner or a look that said, "It's going to be alright, kid."

In addition to serving his country, Stanley also served his community—as a volunteer fireman, a Wrightstown town councilman, and the kind of neighbor who was always ready with a helping hand or a good story. He never sought the spotlight, but people knew they could count on him.

The family kindly requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Deborah Hospital Foundation, supporting the Deborah Heart and Lung Center—the very institution where Stanley and Nancy dedicated years of service and where the devoted doctors and nurses cared for him with such compassion. www.deborahfoundation.org

Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM at Atkinson Hall, 9 Fort Avenue, New Egypt, NJ.