Keith Stanek

Mr. Keith Charles Stanek, 52, passed away on Wednesday, January 9, 2019, at Kate B. Reynolds Hospice Home. Keith was born on December 14, 1966, in Morris County, NJ, to Ronald Joseph and Sandra Hunt Stanek. He was a loving father, son, brother, and friend. He enjoyed music, cooking, coaching, and teaching. He was also an avid sports fan who loved the New York Yankees, New York Giants, and Wake Forest Demon Deacons.  Keith obtained his Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management from James Madison University in Harrisonburg, VA. He was a chef for 20 years, until returning to school to further his education and obtain a Master of Education Degree from Salem College in Winston-Salem, NC. Upon graduation, he pursued a career as a Science Teacher and coach at Tyro Middle School, where he shared his love of environmental science and astronomy. In addition to teaching and coaching, he loved cooking and spending time with friends. He valued his friendships and was always there for others, willing to lend a helping hand. Above all, he was an immensely proud and devoted father. His daughters were his world and he was always their biggest fan. He was constantly traveling to coach and support Carolina Attitude, North Davidson, and Mars Hill softball. Keith touched many lives with his big heart and even bigger smile. He will be remembered as sweet, kind, and gentle. He was dearly loved and will be deeply missed by many friends, students, and players. Surviving are his loving daughters, Robyn and Casey Stanek; parents, Ronald and Sandra Stanek; grandmother, Judie Weber; brother, Cary Stanek (Phyllis Lopes); sister, Jennifer Stanek (Thomas Johnson); nieces, Alexandra and Lauren Stanek, and Riley Johnson; nephew, Jack Gokey; and Hollie Norris, whom he loved as his own daughter. Also surviving are his godmother, Kimberly “Bubba” Grissom; godfather, Charles Grissom; cousins, Hilary Cummings, Donald Allen, and Sydne Pinelli. The family will receive friends from 6-8pm on Friday, January 11, 2019, at Hayworth-Miller Silas Creek Chapel. Guests are welcome to bring a special photo or memento to leave with the family. A memory book will be available for guests to share precious moments and offer condolences. A celebration of life will be held in New Jersey at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to SECU Family House, 1970 Baldwin Ln, Winston-Salem, NC 27103.