BERNE — Greg A. Stempel, a hard-working arborist, died unexpectedly on Monday, June 25, 2018, at home with his loving wife, Tammy, by his side. Greg “Stewie” Allen was 56 years old.

“Greg and Tammy lived a fairy-tale romance,” his family wrote in a tribute. “All those that knew them well were inspired by their romantic chemistry. If we could all be so lucky as to experience a lasting romance such as Greg and Tammy’s.

“Most importantly, Greg was a great father, grandfather, and the best husband ever! He was a great friend to all and in his later years greatly enjoyed playing golf with his closest friends.

“Greg was a caring man. One of the most fond memories for his wife, Tammy, is when they took a spot on the George Washington Bridge, in 1986, for the Hands Across America event that brought 6.5 million people together for the hungry and homeless in America.

“Greg touched many lives. He coached and managed Berne-Knox-Westerlo Little League baseball for over a decade. Many of those children he coached have continued to maintain relationships with him to this day.

“He was an avid dirt bike rider. Riding motorcycles provided him with an inner peace and release from the daily stresses we all face. When on his bike, he was able to remove himself from the troubles of the outside world; he often said when on the bike he had no other thoughts in his mind.

“In 1993, he was the New York State Champion for the 250 Amateur Class. He was a member of the Central New York Motocross Riders Association and he became an expert in the + 50 Class. He was a charter life member of the American Motorcycle Association.”

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Greg A. Stempel is survived by his wife, Tammy Stempel; by their son Allen Stempel of East Berne, father of grandchildren Logan and Ivy Stempel and Hailey Jackson; by their son Rudy Stempel and his wife, Melanie, of South Berne, parents of grandchild Trevor; by Mark Conklin of Schenectady, father of Austin. He was also a loving uncle to several nieces and nephews along with several great nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family plans to host a celebration in his honor at a later date to be determined.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Helderberg Ambulance Service, 978 Cole Hill Rd., East Berne, NY 12059.