In Remembrance April Chmielinski 1965-2025
Posted 7 days ago
April Mae Chmielinski (nee Ripple) of Medford, NJ, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, July 27, 2025, at the age of 60. Born in Hesse, Germany, she was the beloved daughter of the late Jack and Monika (nee Tillmanns) Ripple.
A graduate of Central Bucks West High School in Doylestown, PA, April went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Bloomsburg University and a Master's Degree from the University of Pennsylvania.
In February 1988, April proudly joined the United States Air Force, serving her country with honor and prestige, retiring in 2008 with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. She then devoted herself to a long and impactful career, working at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania from June 1991 until her passing. In addition, she served as a Clinical Instructor for nursing students at the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, mentoring the next generation of caregivers. Her honors, committee work, and professional affiliations were numerous, reflecting her deep commitment to excellence in healthcare and service.
She is the beloved mother of Jacqueline Chmielinski of Medford, NJ, who is the greatest joy and pride of April's life, and Christina Chmielinski (Frankie) of Maple Shade, NJ, and Stephen Chmielinski (Emi) of Easton, PA. She is also survived by her loving sister, Eva Stein (Thomas) of Sellersville, PA, her granddaughter, Vanessa, whom she adored, and the godmother of Jacqueline, Debbie Coleman.
April was known for her boundless kindness, compassion, and generosity. She touched many lives and left behind a large circle of friends, colleagues, and loved ones who will miss her dearly.
Relatives and friends are invited to greet her family on Tuesday, August 12th, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 12 noon at St. Joan of Arc Church, 100 Willow Bend Road, Marlton, NJ, where a Christian mass will be held at noon. Interment will follow at the Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery in North Hanover Twp, NJ. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the BRADELY & STOW FUNERAL HOME, 127 Medford Mt. Holly Rd, Medford, NJ, 08055
In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the April Chmielinski Memorial Fund at the University of Pennsylvania. Contributions will support a memorial bench and scholarship/award opportunities in April's name. Donations can be made online at: RememberingApril or Checks may be made payable to: "Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania", with a note indicating the gift is in memory of April Chmielinski, and mailed to: Penn Medicine Development, Attention: Mike Hugel, 3535 Market Street, Suite 750, Philadelphia, PA 19104. (www.BradleyStow.com)