Gene Virgil Stark

Gene Virgil Stark, 93, of Southport, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on February 24, 2026, reuniting with his beloved wife, Marie T. “Maureen” Stark, who preceded him in death on August 6, 2015. Gene and Maureen shared 38 wonderful years of marriage, building a life rooted in love, faith, and steadfast devotion.

Born and raised in Denver, Colorado, Gene was proud of his Western roots. His grandfather’s homestead in the Rocky Mountains and their family ranch, Star-K Ranch, is now preserved as a Colorado state park. In his youth, Gene loved snow skiing with friends throughout the Rockies and had a passion for exploring new places. He graduated from the University of Denver and was a member of the honor society Phi Theta Kappa—an achievement that reflected his determination and commitment to building a meaningful life, and that sparked his devotion to higher learning and philanthropy.

Gene proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Korean War as a radio technician aboard the USS Hank (DD-702). For his service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, recognizing his honorable service during a time of national conflict. His time in the Navy remained a source of pride and reflected his lifelong sense of duty and commitment.

A devout Christian, Gene’s faith was the cornerstone of his life. He was a dedicated member of Oak Island Evangelical Presbyterian Church, where he found fellowship, purpose, and spiritual strength.

Gene built a respected career with Goodall Rubber in the San Francisco Bay Area, traveling throughout the Western states as a sales manager. He famously told stories about meeting with George Lucas and his design team and selling them parts used in the construction of the Millennium Falcon for the new film Star Wars. When Gene was not working, he and Maureen enjoyed flying around the Bay Area and Monterey with friends to play golf, and occasionally dining with Carmel’s mayor at the time, Clint Eastwood. Gene was also a proud season ticket holder for the San Francisco 49ers during the Joe Montana years and remained a loyal fan for life. Those who worked with him admired his reliability, professionalism, and integrity—yet it was his life beyond work that truly defined him.

Gene and Maureen shared a love of adventure and enjoyed golfing, traveling, and especially Caribbean cruises. They fulfilled a lifelong dream by living on a boat in Carolina Beach, North Carolina, embracing the coastal lifestyle they cherished. Life on the water brought them great joy and peace, and it was there they created many treasured memories until Maureen’s passing in 2015. Their time aboard reflected their shared spirit of adventure and deep companionship.

In his later years, Gene made his home in Southport, where he enjoyed the beauty of coastal North Carolina and the warmth of a close-knit community. He was often found supporting local causes through the Kiwanis Club and participating in Experimental Aircraft Association events and fundraisers. Gene formed lasting friendships and was known for his kindness, sincerity, and willingness to lend a helping hand.

Gene was preceded in death by his children John, Sheri, and Patricia, and by his grandson Steven. He is survived by nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, who carry forward his legacy of faith, service, and love of adventure.

A memorial service celebrating Gene’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on March 7, 2026, at Oak Island Evangelical Presbyterian Church.

Online condolences may be made at www.peacocknewnamwhite.com

Peacock - Newnam & White Funeral and Cremation Service, Southport, North Carolina.