Arthur George Stillinger's Obituary
Arthur George Stillinger, known as “Buzz” to friends and family around the world, passed away peacefully on July 26th, 2023 at the age of 84. He was surrounded by his wife and family at their home in Riva, MD when he began his next journey of kindness, generosity, and love.
Buzz was born on February 28th, 1939, to Frank Henry and Gertrude Metcalf “Grammy” Stillinger in Philadelphia, PA, and grew up in Scarsdale, NY with his three brothers: Frank, Bob, and Bill.
Upon graduation from Edgemont High School in 1957, Buzz attended Cornell University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Master of Business Administration. He enlisted in 1961, served honorably in the U.S. Army’s Security Agency, became fluent in German, and then worked as a Voice Interceptor in Berlin during intense periods of the Cold War. His patriotism and love of country has been inherited by the next two generations of family, who have followed his lead of military service.
In 1961, Buzz met the love of his life, Joan Dodge, and they spent over six decades together, going from one adventure to another: at home, in the many communities they lived, and all around the world. Through teamwork, they successfully raised and wrangled four children, who have a tremendous debt of gratitude for the sacrifices they’ve made, and for the unwavering love they shared.
Buzz spent most of his professional career in the airline industry. Northwest Airlines benefitted the most from his strong work ethic as he moved up the ranks of the air cargo division, but it was his colleagues all around the world who benefitted from his leadership and caring nature. Working for an airline fueled Buzz and Joan’s love for travel, and they were unafraid to drag their small herd of children around the world, giving them an education unlike any other. And when he wasn’t working, traveling or taking care of his family, his love of golf and the goal of achieving a lower handicap kept him extremely busy.
Buzz’ passion for giving back to others tremendously improved the lives of the people in the many communities that they lived. Among many volunteer jobs, including the assembly of thousands of sandwiches for volunteers prior to U.S.N.A home games, working with Rotary International for the last 25 years developed his desire to innovate and improve the lives of school children, working to close critical gaps in education that are experienced by so many.
Over the years, the love of music from his childhood has been passed on from one generation to the next. Most recently, the Londontowne Symphony Orchestra has been the beneficiary of his talent and the beautiful music he made with his beloved cello, but the job titles on his extensive musical resume includes conductor, tenor, cellist, actor, arranger, composer, guitarist, singer, promoter, songwriter, choir director, and long-time leader of the famous “von Stillinger Family Singers.” While he enjoyed doing all the above, serving as music teacher, coach, mentor and friend to his grandchildren brought him the most joy in recent years.
He gave so much of himself to his career, his hobbies, and his community, but it was Joan and his family that received most of his love. While so many view Buzz as a father-figure, those who are privileged to call him “Dad” are Lindsey Stillinger (Lisa), Julie Miller, Randy Stillinger (Sharon), and Dana Robinson (Jeremy). The lucky few that can call him “Papa,” a title he fully embraced, are Emily (Justin), Alex, Ryan, Erin, Sammy, Sarah, Steve, A.J. and Wrenlee (great-granddaughter). He will be missed tremendously by all who know and love him.
A celebration of a life well-lived will be held on August 19th, 2023 at 10:00 AM at the church where Buzz and Joan have been members for over 25 years: Calvary United Methodist Church (301 Rowe Blvd., Annapolis, MD 21401).
Those wishing to honor him and his life of service are encouraged to donate to Charting Careers, Londontowne Symphony Orchestra, Hospice of the Chesapeake, or Calvary United Methodist Church.
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