Zachary “Zach” Stager

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Zachary “Zach” Stager, 39, of Mansfield, PA, passed away suddenly on June 22, 2026 surrounded by those who loved him. Born November 27, 1986, he was the beloved first born son of Dr. Roger and Sherri Cady Stager.

From an early age, Zach found peace and joy in the outdoors. He loved hunting, fishing, and spending time in the woods of his parent’s property. An accomplished marksman, Zach possessed remarkable skill with rifle, shotgun, pistol and bow, which led to extraordinary trophy harvests.

While naturally quiet and unassuming, Zach possessed a deep sense of duty and service to others. He graduated from Mansfield University with a BA degree in Criminal Justice Administration and the Mansfield Municipal Police Academy in 2009. He dedicated his life to protecting the Mansfield community, working up the ranks from patrol officer, to assistant Chief, then ultimately Chief of Police in 2023. He embraced this role with pride, humility and a genuine concern for the people he served.

Above all else, Zach’s greatest joy was his little daughter, Jamison Cait. She was the center of his world and the source of his proudest moments. His love for her was boundless, evident in everything he did and every dream he held for her future.

Along with his daughter, Zach is survived by his parents, brother Jonathan Stager and future sister-in-law Autumn Rumsey, his grandmother Diane Cady, many aunts, uncles, and cousins. An especially close bond was shared with his uncle and aunt Dr. George and Susan Koury. He was preceded in death by grandparents Lawrence and Marie Stager and John W. Cady.

His large extended family, huge circle of friends, and the Mansfield PD were all important to him, and their lives were enriched by his love, loyalty and presence.

He showed us that strength can be gentle, that leadership can be compassionate, and that a meaningful life is one lived in service to others.

Forever remembered.

Forever dancing in the sky.

Family and friends are invited to gather on Wednesday, July 1 at the Buckheit Funeral Chapel, 637 Main Street in Mansfield, PA. Visitation hours will be 3 to 6 p.m., followed by a memorial service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that educational donations be made in Zach’s memory for his daughter. Please make donations payable to Jamison Stager and mail or drop off at Northwest Bank, 50 S. Main St., Mansfield, PA 16933. www.buckheitfcandcrematory.com.