Stephen David Cork

SARASOTA – Colonel Stephen David Cork, U.S. Army (Retired), 80, of Sarasota passed away on January 5, 2024. Steve was born on July 29, 1943 in Indianapolis, IN. He is survived by his wife Margaret (Peg), sister Marilyn, daughters Angela & Joann, granddaughters Cree & Jessica, and great-grandson Jack.
Steve devoted his life to the service of family, country, community, and church. He retired from the Army in 1992 after 26 years of service. In Vietnam, he led men in combat. During the Cold War, he led Air Defense commands in Germany and throughout the U.S. Later he served in the Training & Doctrines Command. He was humbled and honored to serve his Country.
Steve & Peg moved to Sarasota in 1994, where Steve served as the General Services Director and Director of Public Works with the Sarasota County government. Steve was instrumental in the establishment and founding of the Sarasota Military Academy where he served as its first Commandant from 2002 - 2011. Like in the Army, Steve was honored to help develop future leaders at SMA. He went on to become an accomplished author of military fiction novels and continued his service to community with Rotary, ultimately serving as the President of the Rotary Club of Sarasota between 2022 – 2023.
Throughout their time in Sarasota, Steve and Peg have been members of St. Patrick's Catholic Church, where they served as Eucharistic Ministers and Steve, a Sacristan. The congregation and its leadership have been sources of strength and friendship over the years.
Throughout life, Steve never stopped charging. He rarely rested. His life was full of purpose and service to others. He will be sorely missed, but remain, with all those that had the honor of knowing him, an inspiration.
A viewing will be held from 2 – 4pm on Mon. Jan. 15 at Toale Bros. Funeral Home on North Orange Ave. in Sarasota. The church service will be held at 10:30 am on Thurs. Jan 18 at St. Patrick's Catholic Church on Bee Ridge Rd. in Sarasota followed by the interment ceremony at 1:30 pm at Sarasota National Cemetery at 9810 State Rd. 72.