Roy James Stark passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 18, 2020, at Vancouver Hospice.
Born November 17, 1927, Roy was predeceased by his parents Jim and Mary as well as siblings Grace, Lloyd, John and Mary. Recently Roy was predeceased by brothers-in-law Fionn and Bill along with grandson, Michael. He is survived and sadly missed by his wife of 64 years, Nancy, sister Doreen, daughters Tanya (Peter) and Kathleen, and grandchildren David, Stuart, Conrad, Nicola and Claire. Also left behind are several special in-laws, nephews and nieces.
Roy worked at many jobs in his life, but his most cherished work was as a minister with the United Church of Canada. Upon retirement Roy taught us all how to be lifelong learners. An expert on Cornwall, languages and cultural anthropology, a visit with Roy always meant gaining new knowledge (whether it was wanted it or not) and various explorations through well-worn and overstuffed notebooks, atlases and non-fiction books. Drawn to music, Roy spent many years teaching himself the piano, guitar and clarinet. Along with being an excellent whistler, Roy was an enthusiastic tenor who lent his vocals to many church choirs over the years. Roy and Nancy were cherished members of Oakridge United Church. Together at the church, they sat on numerous committees as well as helping to run the thrift store and visiting those who were shut-in.
Roy leaves the world with three precious gifts: his inherent gentleness, a delight in learning and a childlike ability to play even when he was all grown up!
A Memorial Service will be held for Roy at the new Oakridge United Church in Spring, 2020. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the United Church of Canada or the Vancouver Hospice Society.