James Myron Stark

1937 - 2025

James Myron Stark, 87, Passed away peacefully on August 26, 2025, in Sequim, Washington after battling Alzheimers and other complications. Born December 28, 1937, in Spokane, WA. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, James Stark and Ferne Finley, brother Wendell, sister Jacqueline, and nephews Steve and B.J. He is survived by: his wife of 66 years, Marleta (Marty) Viola Stark; sister Renee; two sons, Greg Stark (wife Sylvia Stark), and Tim Stark (wife Shammie Stark); seven grandkids, Brandon (wife Noe), Chantelle (husband Josh), Taylor, Travis (wife Zoe), Satina (husband Nick), Sarina (husband Scott), and Wesley (wife Ceaira); great grandkids; La'akea, Carolann, Loea, Lawaia, Olliver, Christopher, Michelle, Ashton, Madison, Zane, Blake, Tyson, Kameron and Ariana; nephews and nieces: Aaron, Jackie, Annette, Autumn, Steven, Carey and Susie.
Jim grew up in Priest River, ID. He attended Junior year of high school in Spokane, WA, where he joined the Silver Spurs dance group, which traveled to Washington DC during the following summer. In DC, his Silver Spurs group made the cover of Life magazine. He returned back to Priest River for his Senior year and graduation. After graduating high school, he joined the Marine Active Reserves, which he continued for the next 12 years. He moved to Seattle to work as a dance instructor for Arthur Murray Studios, where he met his bride to be, Marletta Burr (Marty). They were married June 28, 1959. He attended a year at the University of Washington where he joined the track team as a pole vaulter. Following his brief college experience, he went to work in construction for a couple years. After that, he joined the Washington State Highway Department as a surveyor for a couple years. He then worked as a drywall and general contractor until finally retiring after they moved to Port Hadlock, WA. Unable to sit still, Jim volunteered for the Parks Department, maintaining the Irondale Beach Park for many years until he physically was unable.
Jim was very active in coaching Little League baseball with his sons, always helping with fundraisers and making team jerseys. Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts were also very important to him. Teaching young kids about hiking, camping, fishing, canoeing, archery, hard work, morals and integrity. He was passionate about bow hunting, river canoeing, fishing, and eventually, nature and wildlife photography. His photo safari to South Africa was a highlight of his new passion for photography.
Jim received many awards and honors over his lifetime of community involvement and volunteering. One of his greatest achievements was beating his battle with alcoholism on February 17, 1987. He remained committed to participating and helping everyone he met through the AA program and beyond.
Jim is remembered for his commitment to always helping others and having an open door for anyone at any time.
Celebration of Life to be held in Port Hadlock, WA, June 2026 with details to follow.