James Martin Stark

James Martin Stark died quietly in his Berkeley home with his family at his side on July 16, 2024. He is survived by his wife, Valerie, and three children, Sebastian (Rachel), Brandon (Tatyana), and Renee (Nate), his two brothers, Jeff, and Bill (Mary), and granddaughter Charlotte.

Born in Manhattan, on February 13, 1948, to Irving and Ruth (nee Martin) Stark, Jim was raised in New York and loved exploring the city by foot and subway. After graduating high school, Jim attended the University of Miami (FL) and George Washington University (Washington D.C.). At GW, Jim was exposed to and became deeply interested in, the social, political, spiritual, and cultural environment of the 1960's. His experience sparked a lifelong belief in the importance of social and economic justice, and a desire to live simply.

In 1976, Jim moved to Berkeley, CA where he lived for the rest of his life. He attended the University of California at Berkeley, where he received master's degrees – in Social Work and Public Health. He spent his career working in the fields of social rehabilitation, HIV/AIDS, and Hospice care. He felt extremely fortunate to do the work he loved and believed it made a difference in people's lives.

Jim was an avid reader, amassing a collection of several hundred books. He loved music and had the opportunity to see many of the greatest bands of the '60s, '70s, and '80s. He traveled extensively throughout the United States and internationally, with family, friends, and solo. Jim was a lifelong San Francisco Giants fan, dating to their time in New York, and was thrilled to watch them win three World Series.

In the later part of Jim's life, he became a dog lover and developed a special connection with his dogs: Rocky, Jack, Foxy, Riley, and Bella. They were his constant companions, especially in retirement, bringing him tremendous joy and happiness.

Both personally, and professionally, Jim loved to meet new people and hear their stories. He maintained many friendships for 50+ years and continued making friends in his 70's. His most special relationships were with his family, especially his wife and partner of 26 years, Valerie, and his kids.

Donations in memory of Jim can be made to Hospice of the East Bay, the Dorothy Day House (Berkeley), or the Berkeley Public Library.

A celebration of Jim's life is planned for the Fall of 2024. Details about the Celebration of Life will be shared with Jim Stark's family and friends in mid-September.