Maryann Stark

Maryann J. Stark, 81, loving wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away Sunday, September 15, 2019 at her home in Titusville, FL. Known for her radiant smile and positive outlook on life, Maryann was loved and admired by all who knew her.

Born September 30, 1937 in Utica, NY to John and Mary (Tarkowski) Jasinski, Maryann was the youngest of five children. She graduated with honors from Holy Trinity School and Utica Free Academy. Her senior yearbook described her as “versatile, lively, and sparkling”,  and she truly was. She was a class officer and participated in many school activities, including choir, cheerleading, and National Honor Society. She loved her busy schedule and carried that same enthusiasm for life throughout all her years.

In 1957, Maryann married Edwin W. Stark (Starczewski), also of Utica, and the two began building a family. When daughters Kathy and Linda were in elementary school, the family moved to Whitesboro, NY and enjoyed their wooded neighborhood in all four seasons. Those years are remembered fondly, busy with family holiday parties, camping, traveling, music, dance and sports activities. Maryann also enjoyed needlework, knitting, and ceramics, producing beautiful heirlooms the family will always cherish.

After many years of working in medical offices, Maryann returned to college to earn a B.S. degree, Summa Cum Laude, from SUNY College of Technology. Following her 1979 graduation, she worked as an auditor for the NY State Insurance Fund. Maryann excelled at her job, and still found time for family and friends, bridge, golf, and travel during her working years.

Always a planner and a goal setter, Maryann set her sights on early retirement. Florida became a winter home in 1992 and a permanent home in 2000. While getting a break from the snow was a factor in the move, being near grandchildren Jessica and Daniel Otto was the true motivation for Maryann and Ed to head south. She loved being a grandmother, attending the grandchildren’s events, babysitting, and always having homemade treats ready for them. Living near the Florida coast made cruising one of Maryann’s favorite retirement activities. She also continued to play golf and bridge, making many new friends in her southern home.

Maryann is survived by her loving husband of 61 years, Edwin Stark; daughters Kathy (Steve) Eckart of Chico, CA and Linda (Scott) Otto of Rockledge, FL; grandchildren Jessica and Daniel Otto; siblings Teddy (Ted) Radley, Steve (Annie) Jasinski, and Dave (Barbara) Jasinski; sisters-in-law Camille (John) Jasinski and Evelyn (Frank) Starczewski; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was predeceased by her parents and her brother John Jasinski, Jr.

The family wishes to thank the nurses and staff of Hospice of St. Francis for the compassionate care that enabled Maryann to be at home during her last months. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, her favorite charity. A memorial service will be held at the Cape Canaveral National Cemetery at a future date.

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