Christopher Vance Stroup, 61, of Valencia, formerly of Chicora, passed away peacefully Wednesday evening, November 10, 2021 following an extended illness.
Born July 22, 1960, he was the loving son of Richard and Nancy Stroup of Chicora.
Christopher was a 1978 graduate of Karns City High School, and the Pennsylvania Culinary Institute, but a man of many talents. Chris most loved his roles of “Papa Bear” to his daughter, Kara, and “Pops” to his four grandchildren. He was a dedicated brother, and uncle, as well as a genuine friend to many. Chris found great joy in the kitchen, and had an accomplished career as a chef, most famously at Jardin’s, Marriott, The Camelot Banquet Hall, Giant Eagle, and Chris’ Custom Catering. While Chris surely enjoyed food, he loved bringing joy to others through his cooking, no matter the event. For many years, through his own playing experiences, as well as his daughter’s, Chris spent countless hours on a ballfield. While he was a talented ballplayer, his greatest contribution was the time spent teaching his daughter the game, and later coaching. Many of Chris’ most cherished friends were those he met through years of softball. His other favorite pastime was racing. If it went fast, he would watch it. For years he could be found without fail at Lernerville Speedway for dirt racing and a hot sausage sandwich. Chris had an infallible sense of determination, an unmatched sense of humor, and the biggest heart of gold.
Surviving are his parents, Richard and Nancy Stroup of Chicora; daughter, Kara Sroka and her husband, Mike, of Valencia; his grandchildren, McKenzie, Owen, Isaac, and Tatum Sroka; a sister, Kim Munoz of Ashburn, VA; his nieces, Sarah Munoz (Steve Samson) of Ashburn, VA and Chloe Hudson; his nephews, Jackson Hudson and Austin Samson.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Lindsay Marie Stroup, who was undoubtedly the first to greet him.
The family would like to extend their most sincere appreciation for the excellent care and support provided by Amedysis Hospice, and the Chicora Medical Center.
Friends will be received at the Hile Funeral Funeral Home of Chicora, 339 Chicora Fenelton Rd., Chicora, from 1-3 and 6-8 p.m. Saturday. A funeral service will be held from the funeral home at 2:00 p.m. Sunday with the Rev. Jim Lewis, pastor of the Chicora United Methodist Church, officiating. Interment will be in Hillview Cemetery, Kepple’s Corners. Condolences may be sent by visiting www.hilefh.com.