Tim Stark

LAKEWOOD, Wash. — Tim Stark, along with his nephew, Greg Stark, died on Saturday, May 21, 2005, due to exposure while hiking near Camp Muir on Mount Rainier.

Tim was born on Oct. 9, 1947, in St. Ignatius, and grew up in Polson, the fourth of 10 children.

His childhood instilled in him a love of hunting, nature and Montana. He graduated from the University of Montana in 1970 with a degree in physical education.

Tim was the school record-holder in the 440-yard intermediate hurdles until 1997, a Big Sky Conference champ in 1968, and qualified for the NCAA national championships in 1968 and 1969.

He went on to receive a master's degree in management from Pacific Lutheran University.

Tim married his college sweetheart, Nancy Jean Fleet, in September 1969.

He was drafted in 1970 and enlisted with the Air Force. He took great joy and pride in flying C-141s for the U.S. Air Force over a 20-year career, including service in Vietnam, Granada and Desert Storm. He retired as reservist in 1992 as a lieutenant colonel.

He transitioned from the Air Force to a career with United Airlines in 1985. He flew DC-10s, 727s, 747s, 757s, and 767s throughout his career. His latest position was captaining 777s on domestic and international routes.

He was scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 32 for many years and passed on his strong sense of duty and love of the wilderness to many Scouts. He helped many attain the rank of Eagle Scout, including his two sons.

Surviving are his wife Nancy Stark of Lakewood; two sons, Marshall Stark of Lakewood and Ian Stark of St. Paul, Minn.; and two beloved bird hunting dogs, Glacier and Willie.

Also surviving are brother Mike Stark and wife Barbara of Royal City, Wash.; sister Barbara Klammer and husband Charlie of White Bear Lake, Minn.; sister Mary Rosdahl and husband Nils of Coeur d'Alene; brother Andy Stark and wife Debbie of Polson; brother Rob Stark of Bozeman; brother Jeff Stark and wife Trish of Dallas; brother Chris Stark and wife Mary of Fairbanks, Alaska; and brother Paul Stark of Fairbanks.

He was preceded in death by sister Patti Mercure and parents Max and Charlotte Stark.

A memorial service was held March 28 at Christ Lutheran Church in Lakewood with Pastor Randall Olson officiating.

Memorials may be made to the University of Montana track program in care of Tom Raunig, Hoyt Athletic Complex, The University of Montana, 32 Campus Drive, Missoula, MT 59812-8496.

Arrangements were by Personal Alternatives.