Adrian Stembel Jr.

Adrian J. "A.J." Stembel Jr., 68, of Cape Girardeau passed away Tuesday, May 31, 2022, at Fountainbleau Lodge in Cape Girardeau.

He was born Feb. 23, 1954, to Adrian J. Stembel Sr. and Bettye Lang Crockett in Tullahoma, Tennessee. A.J., or "Jan" to many, grew up in Tennessee. He left home at an early age to travel and work as a roadie with several southern rock bands before attending school and obtaining a certification in air conditioning and refrigeration.

A.J. overcame a terrible disease, being a transplant recipient of a new liver and kidney about 25 years ago. He was so grateful for a second chance at life. Despite the sometimes-grueling treatments and occasional setbacks, he loved Jesus and would respond when asked how he was, "I'm blessed!" He was a member of LaCroix Church and active in several men's groups. He loved to fish and was an avid NASCAR fan.

Survivors include his three brothers, Michael Stembel, Brett (Cherie) Stembel and Brad Crockett; and several other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

The family will hold a celebration of life for A.J. at 10 a.m. Friday at LaCroix Church in Cape Girardeau.

In lieu of flowers, consider becoming an organ donor at midamericatransplant.org or making a contribution in A.J.'s memory to the American Diabetes Association.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Crain Funeral Home.