Christopher Stroup
Christopher Vance Stroup, 61, of Valencia, formerly of Chicora, passed away peacefully Wednesday evening, Nov. 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 graduate of 1978 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; his 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; and 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 Amedisys Hospice and the Chicora Medical Center.
STROUP — Friends of Christopher Vance Stroup, who died Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2021, will be received from 1 to 3 and 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday at Hile Funeral Home of Chicora, 339 Chicora Fenelton Road, Chicora.
A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home with the Rev. Jim Lewis of the Chicora United Methodist Church officiating.
Interment will be in Hillview Cemetery, Kepples Corners.
Condolences may be sent by visiting www.hilefh.com.
