Michael Stark, 78, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, October 21st, surrounded by his beloved family and close friends who were like family to him. Born in Boston, Massachusetts, to Thomas and Margret Stark on July 13th, 1946, Michael was raised in Bellevue, Ohio, where he discovered his passion for sports, playing for the Redmen football team.
Michael graduated from Bowling Green State University, during which time he was a member of the first rugby team and also when he met Ruth, the love of his life, ‘partner in crime,’ and wife of 55 years. He proudly served his country in the Navy from June 1970 to June 1974 in California and Virginia. Following his service, Mike and Ruth returned to Bowling Green, the place where they raised their daughter, Catherine, spending countless hours at the local rink together, and he had a career as a medical technologist spanning over 40 years.
A lifelong hockey enthusiast, Michael remained passionate about the game both as a player until age 75 and as a dedicated couch coach for the Detroit Red Wings. He enjoyed golfing with friends, swimming, attending neighborhood get-togethers, and watching anything sports-related with a cat in his lap. He was known for his patience, kind heart, and remarkably entertaining approach to problem-solving.
Michael’s warmth and humor touched everyone he met. His legacy of love and compassion will forever be continued by his wife, Ruth; daughter, Catherine Stark (Joel Sparks); sister, Patricia Westhoven (Mike); and nieces and nephews, Sean Westhoven (Tiffany, Katlyn, Tyler), Kelly Lieberman (Mark, Kyra, Taylor, Reese), Lisa Drennan (Carson, Carter) Beth Westhoven, lifelong friends and the best neighbors.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 30, 2024 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Dunn Funeral Home, 408 W. Wooster St. Bowling Green, Ohio 43402. The funeral service will be held on Thursday, October 31, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. at St. John’s XXIII, 24250 N. Dixie Hwy. Perrysburg, Ohio 43551.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks to please make donations to St. John XXIII or to the Special Olympics in memory of Michael.
To share an online condolence or fond memory with the family please visit www.dunnfuneralhome.com.
