Christopher L. Stockbauer, known to his sports buddies as Whitey or Stocks, 48, of Lancaster, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at his residence.

Born and raised in Lancaster, he was the son of the late Joseph J. Stockbauer and Carol J. (Sheaffer) Welkowitz.

Chris was a 1993 graduate of Ephrata High School. Music was one of Chris's great loves, and he had a remarkable singing voice. He also played trumpet in Concert Band and Jazz Band. His high school singing days transitioned into karaoke nights. He had attended countless local and well-known live performances by Pearl Jam, Dave Matthews, Van Halen, various blues musicians and countless others.

Chris loved all things cars, especially Mustangs. As a skilled Paintless Dent Repair Technician, he dedicated himself to restoring the beauty of vehicles. He took great pride in the quality and precision of his work. A sports enthusiast from a young age, Chris's passion for baseball was ignited by a gift from his mother – an APBA Baseball set. This childhood fascination evolved into a lifelong obsession, shaping his involvement in coaching his daughters soccer team, playing men's softball, and playing on the tennis team. An avid all-around sports fan and trivia master, he enjoyed watching and attending a variety of live sporting events. In particular, he was a lifelong fan of the Phillies, Steelers, and the Tar heels.

Chris found solace and joy by the water, especially at the beach, where he loved to fish and bask in the serenity of the waves. His connection to the water mirrored his love for life's simple pleasures. Chris loved his family, his dog Posey, and firing up the grill on a lazy weekend while listening to his favorite music. Known for his generous spirit and eagerness to help anyone in need, Chris was a beacon of kindness in his community. A natural conversationalist and people person, he enjoyed connecting with others. Above all, Chris's heart belonged to his beloved daughter, Delaney, who was his world. Their bond was unbreakable. Equally significant was Chris's relationship with his niece, Malorie, whom he raised like his own. Chris embraced the role of father figure with unwavering dedication. He loved Malorie like his own daughter without hesitation.

Chris is survived by his mom, Carol J. Welkowitz; his daughter, Delaney Stockbauer; his partner of over 10 years, Sarah Werner and her son, Dominic Balsdon; his brothers, Shaun and Michael Stockbauer; his niece, Malorie Stockbuer; his uncles, Lee and Jeffrey Sheaffer; and many cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph Stockbauer.

Friends and family will be received from 10AM to 11AM on Saturday, February 17, 2024 at Charles F. Snyder, Jr. Funeral Home & Crematory, 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz, PA 17543. A memorial service will follow beginning at 11AM. Interment will be held privately at the convenience of the family.

Friends are invited to join Chris's family in a continued celebration of his life at American Bar and Grill from 1PM to 3PM on Saturday, March 9, 2024. Come share a memory of Stocks.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Chris's name to the American Heart Association through the following link: https://www.heart.org .