Walter John "Johnny" Stark made his transition to heaven on November 16, 2020, exactly 93 years to the day of his birth in 1927. He was born in Maywood, Il, and passed peacefully at Fort Meade VA hospital in Sturgis, SD. Johnny is interred at Black Hills National Cemetery.
Johnny, as he was known to all, began his adult life farming with his father, Peter, near Nisland, SD. Prior to serving his country with honor in the U.S. Air Force, he married Florence Kosola and to this union one son was born, Dale W. Stark
During Johnny's life he had a variety of vocations including bulk dealer for Standard Oil Company, servicing cars, fixing tires, driving school bus and being a barber for the local farmers. He was a highly skilled carpenter who further contributed to the community by building many of the local dairy barns and other agricultural buildings in the area. The first home he built was for area rancher and county commissioner, Richard Reeder.
Johnny's talents also encompassed art and music. He was a gifted sketch artist and could play both the harmonica and piano by ear. He wrote a book about the Nisland, Newell, and Vale, area history with many pictures and sketches from memories that can be found in area museums. He also built furniture and crafted very detailed small wooden toys.
He was an avid supporter of the community by serving on city council, local churches, and past commander of the Nisland American Legion Post.
Survived by his beloved son, Dale Stark (Lele Archangeli) and Dale's children, McKayla and John P. Stark. Johnny also considered Dale's lifelong best friend, Mike Quenzer to be a son of his own. He also leaves behind his dear step-children, Ken (Donna) Wright, La Vonne Stephens, Beverly (Ben) Lewis, and Judy (Raymond) Dell; and their 17 grandchildren; 23 great- grandchildren; and 4 great-great-grandchildren. The talents and accomplishments of all his children and grandchildren made him especially proud. He spoke of this often and with love.
Preceding him in death was his second wife, Marjorie (Wright) Stark. Johnny and Marjorie shared in the raising of her four small children and his young son together. Johnny proclaimed his deep and abiding love for Marjorie even in his last days. Also, he was preceded in death by his parents Peter Stark Sr. and Amelia (Frick) Stark; his brothers, Peter Jr, Albert, and Soloman; his sisters, Esther, Edna, Minnie, and Lillian; as well as his first wife, Florence (Kosola) Arnold.
All those who knew Johnny will remember him best for his unwavering faith, love, and devotion to the Lord, first and foremost.
.....And a voice from heaven said, "This is my beloved son, in whom I am well pleased." Matthew 3:17
Committal services were held 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, November 19, 2020, at Black Hills National Cemetery with military honors.