Robert J. Stark

Dr. Robert J. Stark, 83, of Hot Springs Village passed away Thursday, April 5, 2012. He was born January 6, 1929 in Buchanan, Michigan to Harold & Charlotte (O’Meara) Stark. Robert was a graduate of Buchanan High School, Albion College and Marquette University School of Dentistry. He served as a Captain in the U.S. Air Force where he practiced dentistry. Dr. Stark opened an office in Niles, Michigan in 1956 where he practiced dentistry for 40 years before retiring to Hot Springs Village, Arkansas with his wife Helen, of 60 years. He was a life member of the American Dental Society, Michigan Dental Society and Lakeland District Dental Society. Robert was a member of Village Unitarian Universalist Church where he enjoyed volunteering at the Jackson House serving meals and assisting with blanket drives for those in need. Dr. Stark enjoyed hunting, fishing, nature photography, sports, and spending time with his family. He was predeceased by his parents and his brother, John Robert Stark. Robert is survived by his wife, Helen Stark of Hot Springs Village; sons, Robert J. Stark, Jr. of Hot Springs Village and John M. (Paula) Stark of Niles, Michigan; daughter, Susan (Waseem) Hijjawi of Cleveland, Ohio; sister, Jacqueline (Gene) Wesner of Buchanan, Michigan; and grandchildren, Charlotte M. (Stark) Ribiero, Sean R. Stark and Ramsey W. Hijjawi. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Friday April 20th at 11:00 a.m. at Swem Chapel. Friend may call one hour prior to the service. The family respectfully requests donations to The Alzheimer’s Association and the local animal shelter, in lieu of flowers. Those wishing to sign his guest book may do so by visiting our web site www.swemchapel.com.