Stark, Harold Dean (1926-2005)

STARK, CERTAIN, WINKLEBLACK, WUBBELS, ECKLES, SAUNDERS, DODGE

Posted By: Debbie Greenfield (email)
Date: 2/16/2022 at 14:51:45

Daily Freeman Journal
Webster City, Iowa
Monday, May 23, 2005

Harold Dean "Skip" Stark, formerly of Dodge City, KS and Webster City, IA., passed away May 17, 2005 in Ashland, OR. Preceded in death by his wife and light of his life, Harriet (Hattie) Stark and sister, Donny Certain, and survived by his children, Ted (Heidi) Stark, Holly (Tom) Winkleblack and Emily (Lynn) Stark-Wubbels; 5 grandchildren, Ben, Emily, Andy, Iris and Hattie; sisters Murry Eckles and Betty Saunders; and many nieces and nephews. Born in Solomon, KS on July 27, 1926, Skip was raised under the careful watch of his loving sisters. He married Harriet Dodge in 1949 and the couple resided in Webster City, IA for nearly 30 years. Skip was a lifetime employee of Peoples Natural Gas.

He was a member of the United Methodist Church and was active on the Webster City Park Board. He dedicated much time and talent to protecting and enhancing the city's natural and historic sites including Brewer's Creek and the train depot. In 1985, Skip and Hat moved to Dodge City, KS where they enjoyed the company of many close friends and treasured the opportunity to live closer to their grandchildren. Always heard before seen with his unforgettable whistle, Skip was always up before the sun and encouraged others in his family to join him, often with a promise of a free breakfast at the local cafe.

Unmatched in his gentlemanly ways, Skip's soft-spoken, courteous and considerate nature set the bar quite high for those who strived to emulate him. Those who knew Skip marveled at his knowledge and respect for the natural wonders around him. From prairie dogs and native wildflowers to finches and pine siskins, Skip's profound connection to the world around him and his love of sharing the wonder of it will forever be his legacy.

A memorial service will be held at a later date in Webster City, IA.