Gwen Stark

Gwen was born on July 28, 1955 in Minneapolis, MN to Earl and Leona Stark. As their first of six children, she liked to mother her siblings, and later, her nieces and nephews. Gwen graduated from Columbia Heights High School with the Class of 1973 and began her career first at Keys Chow Mein before moving on to Kmart in her hometown, eventually working her way to manager of the infants’ department before hanging up her red vest after nearly 31 years of service. From there, she worked in parts packaging at Endries International in Oakdale, MN. Even after Gwen was diagnosed with breast cancer, she continued to work in between treatments before giving her resignation when the cancer and related issues made it impossible for her to continue to work.

Gwen was diagnosed with breast cancer in late 2010 after experiencing some puzzling symptoms for quite some time. She braved chemotherapy, a double mastectomy and radiation all the while making friends with her nurses and oncologist, Dr. Mann. In June 2013, after a fall that resulted in spinal surgery, Gwen was unable to walk and was transferred to a short-term care facility before moving to Johanna Shores in Arden Hills, where she lived for the remainder of her life. As the cancer spread to her spine and brain, she continued treatments to slow the growth of the tumors. Gwen’s sister-in-law, Kathy Stark, said it best, “Gwen wanted to live!” And she did. Gwen participated in many activities and outings including painting ceramics, baking cookies, attending Twins games and going on pontoon rides. She also enjoyed the company of her family and friends, whether it was weekly visits or for special occasions, like a bridal shower for a niece or the famous Stark Christmas get-togethers.

Gwen had a heart for children, especially her 6 great nephews and 1 great niece. She loved holding them while they were babies and reading to them every chance she got. She gave high fives and rubbed their backs until they fell asleep.

Gwen’s Mother, Leona (Kurpuis) Stark, loved to visit her as often as she could. They would share lunch together, play games and participate in BINGO where the prizes were fun-size candy bars. Gwen would ask about her Mom often, which proves that you’re never too old to still need your Mom.

Gwen is survived by her loving partner of over 30 years, Don Lawhead, who she affectionately referred to as “buddy.” Seeing Don was the highlight of her day and Gwen was truly blessed to have someone like Don who stood by and cared for her on her best and worst days.

Gwen was fortunate to grow up in a house full of siblings, which later grew to include in-laws. Mike (Jean), Greg (Kathy), Jan Magnuson, Jim (Dee) and Earl Jr. “Chip” (Karen Joyce).

While Gwen didn’t have any children of her own, she treated her 12 nieces and 2 nephews like sons and daughters. She even crocheted beautiful afghans for each one as high school graduation presents that they all still cherish to this day. Gwen will be remembered for her extensive penguin collection, her ability to make friends wherever she went, always putting other’s needs before her own and for her refreshingly blunt sense of humor. We’ll miss her ‘telling it like it is’!

Gwen has joined her Dad, Earl Stark, in heaven where she is drinking an ice-cold Pepsi while catching up and challenging him to friendly games of Farkle.

Special thanks to the nurses, doctors and support staff at Minnesota Oncology, Johanna Shores and Optage Hospice Services. We will always be grateful for the kindness and care you provided to Gwen.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 1 at 2 PM with visitation one hour prior, located at Immaculate Conception Church (4030 Jackson Street, Columbia Heights, MN). A private family interment will follow at a later date.

In closing, a verse from 2 Timothy 4:7: I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept

the faith.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to www.payitforwardfund.net