Born: Dec. 3, 1957

Died: Sept. 18, 2013

John Matthew Stark, 55, passed away at his home surrounded by his family on Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2013. John was an inspiration to his family as he fought a long, heroic battle with cancer. He was born in Salina, Kansas on Dec. 3, 1957 to Dr. Robert J. Stark and Helen Stark. John was raised in Niles, Michigan where he lived most of his life. John graduated from Niles High School in 1976 and went on to receive a BS in business from Northern Michigan University in Marquette, Michigan.

After graduating college, John went on to work for G. Heileman Brewing Company and married the love of his life, Paula Kaminski. They were married on Jan. 8, 1983. They went on to run Pauly’s Pub in downtown Niles for seven years.

John and Paula were blessed with two children, Charlotte and Sean. John was a family man and was very proud of his family. He was an avid fisherman and hunter, liked to play poker, and was an all around people person. John loved spending time with his family, which brought the most joy to his life.

He was preceded in death by his father, Dr. Robert J. Stark. He is survived by his mother, Helen Stark; his wife, Paula Stark; his siblings, Robert Stark Jr., and Susan Stark Hijjawi; his two children, Charlotte Ribeiro and Sean Stark; and his granddaughter Avery Jane Ribero.

John is gone but not forgotten. He had many friends and loved ones who will miss him dearly. John wanted more than anything to be remembered as a nice guy.

A private family memorial event has been chosen.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Paula Stark to help with final end of life expenses.