Franz Josef Stoffler

Franz Josef Stoffler, known to family and friends simply as Franzi, passed away on June 30, 2026. Born December 2, 1932, in Schwäbisch Gmünd, Germany, he was the beloved son of Otto and Berta Stoffler. Gentle, curious, and quietly passionate about the things he loved, Franzi lived a life defined by skilled hands, steady dedication, and warm companionship. Trained as a watchmaker and machinist, Franzi began his career in Germany before emigrating to the United States at age 26. In New Jersey he worked as a machinist and went on to a distinguished career at Specialty Ring Products in Bensalem, PA, where he served as plant superintendent and director of quality control—a position of which he was very proud. He later brought his mechanical expertise to St. Michaels, Maryland, where he was part owner of a boat sales and repair business. Boats, cars and finely crafted machinery were lifelong passions; he took pleasure in tending engines and details the way a watchmaker tends gears. Franzi’s story is also one of love and happy chance. He met his beloved Beverly at the Easton Amish Market in a meeting the family remembers as a lovely, serendipitous encounter; they were married soon after and shared many years of companionship, laughter and quiet devotion. A devoted pet-lover, he treasured his cat Mithra, who was his faithful companion for 19½ years. He played professional soccer in Trenton, NJ for ten years as a proud member of the German club, and his friends and teammates fondly remember his competitive spirit and camaraderie on the field. He is survived by his wife, Beverly Stoffler; nieces and nephews Karen (Rolf), Susie, and Crystal; nephew Marfred; and great-nieces and great-nephews Jasmin (Kevin), Timo, and Anja. His family will remember him for his gentle humor, his pride in a job well done, and the steady, unassuming kindness that marked everything he did. A Funeral Mass will be held on July 21, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Easton, Maryland. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Talbot Hospice or the Talbot Humane Society—organizations meaningful to Franzi and the family. The family appreciates the love and support of all who knew Franzi and invites those whose lives he touched to celebrate the quiet strength, craftsmanship, and generous heart of a life well lived.

Franz Josef Stoffler

December 2, 1932 - June 30, 2026