Obituary of James STARK

JAMES LAUNCE STARK July 21, 1921 - August 2, 2008 It is with great sadness we announce the peaceful passing of James (Jim) Stark at Deer Lodge Centre. Jim was born near Young, Saskatchewan, the youngest child of John and Martha Mae Stark. He was also predeceased by his sisters Lillian and Rita and his brother Jack. He will be especially missed by his "adopted family" and close friends Brenda Edwards and Gil Pelletier and their son Wayde. Jim enlisted with the Calgary Tanks Regiment on April 20, 1942. He saw action in Sicily and also served in France, Germany, Holland and England. On January 12, 1946 he was discharged at Regina, Saskatchewan. After the war, Jim held a variety of jobs in many places such as Dryden, Sioux Lookout and Churchill before settling permanently in Winnipeg in 1956. He spent 15 years at the Post Office as a Postal Clerk and was also an owner/operator at Unicity Taxi for many years. One of his passions was camping in the Whiteshell Provincial Park, where he enjoyed picking blueberries, playing Aggravation and could be content just sitting around the campfire. He was quick to spot a "beer cloud" when one appeared overhead. Jim was an expert fisherman and had a Master Angler certificate to prove it. Another favourite pastime was going to Assiniboia Downs, where he was an excellent handicapper. He also relished playing Bingo, heading to the casino and entering the odd newspaper contest, one time even winning a boat, motor and trailer. He loved to read and also enjoyed the odd game of shuffleboard, pool and cribbage. Jim looked forward to his outings at the Monte Cassino Legion, where he was a longstanding member. It added to his enjoyment when at times he was joined there by his friend Michelle Fontaine. Jim spent many Christmases with the Lelyk family, where the festivities and games often lasted into the wee hours. Jim particularly enjoyed a surprise visit last summer from his Saskatoon relatives, sister-in-law June Stark, nieces Judy Stark and Jeannie Schmitt and cousin Ossie. Much time was spent reminiscing and poring over old photo albums. In honour of Jim's memory they will be planting a tree at Young, Saskatchewan. Jim was a quiet, gentle person who loved animals, had a quick sense of humour, a twinkle in his eye and was always willing to lend a helping hand. Special thanks to his caregiver Kathy Taylor and the caring staff of Tower 5 and 3 East at Deer Lodge Centre. Cremation has taken place and no formal service will be held as per Jim's wishes. He will be laid to rest at Brookside Cemetery in the Veterans' Field of Honour at a later date. If he laughs when you are gay, If he grieves when you are sad, If he tolerates your follies without end, If he makes your way his way, If his presence makes you glad, If he knows your faults yet loves you, He's your friend. CROPO FUNERAL CHAPEL 586-8044