Lester “Les” Stark of Albion/Duck Lake passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 4, 2018 at the Stoneleigh Hospice Residence in Lansing with family gathered around. When asked his age, rather than saying “91,” he would say “91 and a half,” adding the half to emphasize how amazed he was at himself that he lived so long. He indeed had a long and rich life.
Les was born on August 19, 1926 to Gustave and Minnie Stark (Moss) on a farm near Duck Lake, north of Albion. He was the youngest of seven surviving children, all of whom preceded him in death: Benjamin “Benji” Stark (Clara), Irene Shrontz (Harold), Francis Burns (Carroll), Hazel “Beatrice” Miller (Harold), Ruth Wolford (Jerry), and Nelson Stark (Elaine).
Les is survived by his daughters, Linda Stark-Litehiser (Joe) and LouAnn Stark-Dykema (Jay); his son, Tom Stark (Niecy); grandchildren, Benjamin LeClear (Brooke), Erin Harte, Stella Stark, Joshua Stark-Dykema, and Evan Stark-Dykema; great grandchildren, Ruby LeClear, Emme LeClear, Levi Holmes, Jordan Harte and Tara Harte-Rodriquez. Les is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. There was always a dog in Les’ life and Abbey has been a great companion for him the last 10 years. She is now sharing her love with a new family in Okemos, Michigan.
Les served in the U.S. Army in Germany during World War II. After the war he married his high school sweetheart, Helen Stark (Zeindler) in 1948, and they were inseparable companions until her death in 1997. Les owned and operated United Pipe & Supply, Inc. in Albion for 37 years until he retired in 1996. His other activities included league bowling, membership in the Elks, The Leisure Hour Club and a VFW member. He was also a member of the Albion American Legion Post 55 for over 40 years. Les is perhaps best known and respected for his leadership roles as a member and board of directors officer at the Duck Lake Country Club. He recently received recognition for his continuous membership of 70 years at the Club. During his retirement Les became a public servant, being elected to the position of Township Supervisor, representing Clarence Township for over 13 years.
Les enjoyed golfing and socializing. Late afternoon “happy hour” was a frequent event at his home bar, where he could be found with a Miller High Life in hand. He is remembered for welcoming his friends by offering a drink when they walked into his home. Les enjoyed good laughs and lively conversation with friends and family. He loved to tell stories and entertained all with his wit and amazing memory. His favorite place on earth was the south end of Duck Lake, his home for 70 years.
Visitation for family and friends will be held on Friday, March 9, 2018, 5:00 – 7:00 PM, followed by praying the rosary at 7:00 PM, at J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finley Drive, Albion, Michigan 49224. A Memorial Service will be held at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 1020 Irwin Ave, Albion, Michigan 49224 on Saturday, March 10, 2018 at 10:00 AM. Interment will be at Riverside Cemetery. There are plans for a reception at Duck Lake this summer to celebrate Les’ life, date to be determined.
Memorial contributions can be made to St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 1020 Irwin Ave, Albion, Michigan 49224, or to Hospice of Lansing & Stoneleigh Residence, 3411 Stoneleigh Drive, Lansing MI 48910.
To leave online messages of condolence for the family, please visit www.kevintiddfuneralhome.com
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