James Charles Stefanelli's Obituary
James C. Stefanelli, age 67, left this earth peacefully on January 1, 2026 in Milford, DE with his loving husband by his side. Born on April 1, 1958, in Tiffin, Ohio, Jim was the beloved son of Joseph Stefanelli and the late Janet M. (Robenalt) Stefanelli.
In 2004, Jim met Allan J. Doonan and on December 7, 2013, he married his constant companion and the love of his life, Allan at their townhouse in Rehoboth Beach, DE.
A long-time resident of Bowling Green, Ohio, he built his first home there and worked 26 years for Henry Filters, Inc. Jim spent most of his time with the company as a project manager.
In 2017, Jim and Allan retired to Rehoboth Beach and became active volunteers and members of All Saints Episcopal Church. For several years, Jim volunteered working in the church garden and surrounding grounds. They also volunteered with the animal shelters at Humane Animal Partners working with the animals and assisting with several building projects.
Jim is survived by his devoted husband, Allan; his faithful rescue dog, Oakley; his father, Joseph, of Pemberville, OH; his siblings, Judy (Bob) Baldwin of Fostoria, OH; John (Barbara) Stefanelli of Howell, MI; Jeff (Dawn) Stefanelli of Gladwin, MI; Janis (Philip) Kokinakes of Rossford, OH; and Joseph M. (Debra) Stefanelli of Montpelier, OH; and his mother-in-law, Janet Doonan of Lewes, DE (the late James Doonan).
A Celebration of Life will take place on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at 11:00 AM at All Saints Episcopal Church, 18 Olive Ave., Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service for family and friends. Entombment will be private for family at All Saints Cemetery, Harbeson, DE.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to All Saints Episcopal Church, 18 Olive Ave., Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971, Humane Animal Partners, Midway Plaza, 18675 Coastal Highway, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971, or Delaware Hospice, https://delawarehospice.org/ .
Please sign the virtual guestbook located on the tribute page.
FLORIST NOTE: PLEASE DELIVER ALL ARRANGEMENTS BY 3:00 PM ON MONDAY, JANUARY 19, 2026, TO OUR LEWES LOCATION.
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