James Wayne Stark

Born in Grand Rapids, Michigan on March 14, 1947, Jim lived a life defined by faith, family, learning, and service. He graduated from Reeths-Puffer High School in 1966 and continued his pursuit of knowledge throughout his life, earning a Bachelor's Degree in Business, a Master's Degree in Business and Marketing, and a Ph.D. in Theology. He proudly served in the United States Navy Reserve until receiving a medical honorable discharge.

Jim enjoyed a successful career at the Muskegon Chronicle, where he worked for 30 years before retiring. Retirement, however, never suited him for long. He later served as an adjunct instructor and eventually as Dean of Marketing at Baker College, where he spent six more years sharing his knowledge and mentoring students before retiring again.

On June 10, 1967, Jim married the love of his life, Suzanne Marie Bloomstrom. Together they shared nearly 59 years of marriage, building a home centered on faith, laughter, and unconditional love. Their partnership became the foundation of a family that brought Jim his greatest joy. His faith was woven into every part of his life. Jim had a deep love for studying scripture and a lifelong fascination with Middle East history. Through his online ministry, he reached people around the world with encouragement, biblical teaching, and thoughtful discussion. He faithfully led Bible studies and found great fulfillment helping others grow in their relationship with Christ.

Jim also shared his love of music with countless people. For approximately 12 years, he traveled with a quartet, singing and playing instruments in churches throughout the region. Blessed with the ability to play by ear, he used his talents to worship God and bring joy to others.

While his accomplishments were many, some of Jim's happiest moments were the simplest. His favorite place was on his zero-turn mower, caring for his lawn and creating beauty wherever he could. His servant's heart was evident when he restored an old baseball field in Cadillac so local children would have a place to play.

Above all else, Jim was devoted to his family. He rarely missed an opportunity to cheer from the sidelines, whether it was baseball, football, tennis, cross-country, track and field, swimming, Tae Kwon Do, or dance recitals. He traveled to New York and Nebraska to watch his grandsons play baseball and attended countless events for his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Even just two weeks before his passing, he was cheering on his great-granddaughters at a tee-ball game. No distance was too far and no event was too small when family was involved.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Suzanne Marie Stark; daughters Paula (Dave) Back and Connie (Ron) Searl; grandchildren David (Rebecca) Back, Nicole (Mikyle) Back, Alyssa Back, Ronnie (Emily) Searl, Andrew (Taylor) Searl, and Alex (Jordan) Searl; and his cherished great-grandchildren Emery Back, Ellison Back, Evelyn Back, Brooks Searl, and Sadie Searl. He was also eagerly awaiting the arrival of another great-grandchild, Baby Searl, expected by Alex and Jordan.

He was preceded in death by his parents Charles and Dorothea Stark; brothers Charles, Dave, and Jack Stark; and sisters Louise and Shirley.

Those who knew Jim will remember his quick wit, his wisdom, his unwavering faith, and the love he freely gave to his family and friends. His life was a testimony to service, generosity, and devotion to Christ. While he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in knowing he is now in the presence of the Savior he loved so dearly. "Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23

There will be a celebration of life 6 p.m. Friday, June 19, 2026, with visitation from 5-6 p.m., at Jenison Bible Church, 6360 14th Avenue, Hudsonville, Michigan 49426. A dessert reception will immediately follow the service.

For those wishing to honor Jim's memory, memorial contributions may be made to Corewell Health Hospice or Jenison Bible Church. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresgrandville.com in their guestbook online.