PO2/EO2
James F. Stark, loving husband, father, papa, and grandpa
OLEAN — James F. Stark, of the town of Olean, passed away Sunday (September 8, 2024) at the Pines of Olean where he had been recently admitted.
Born June 28, 1947 in Olean, he was the son of the late James R. and Ethel M. Himes Stark. In 1991 he married Priscilla A. Lengvarsky, who survives.
Jim was a 1965 graduate of Allegany Central School. In 1966 he enlisted in the US Navy where he served with the Seabees and did two tours of duty in Vietnam. He was honorably discharged in 1969. He then worked for Verizon for 32 years prior to his retirement.
Jim enjoyed his annual fishing trips to Canada for 25 years. He also kept a strong connection with his Navy buddies and attended Seabee reunions regularly. Trips to Atlantic City with his best friends Dave and Kathy Volz were a highlight of his, as well as having coffee every morning with friends, usually at the Hibernian Hall. His most cherished time was that which he spent with his wife, family, and grandchildren for family cookouts, birthday parties, and holidays. To all who knew him he was a fun-loving and giving person.
He is survived by his wife Priscilla; a daughter, Jamie (Mike) Cianciosa of N. Tonawanda; two sons, Kerry (Candi) Stark of Albion and Martin (Kelly) Lengvarsky of Portville; grandchildren, Anthony and Megan Cianciosa of N. Tonawanda, Jessica Avery of Albany, Katie (Nolan) Albert of Allegany, Joseph, Christopher, and Paige Lengvarsky of Portville, and Jessica Johnson of Olean; a sister, Trudy Stark of Olean, and several nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.
Jim’s wish was for there to be no public visitation or service. The family will gather for a private burial ceremony at the Five Mile Cemetery in Allegany.
Memorials may be made to the Allegany American Legion Ritual Team, 4350 NY 417, Allegany, NY 14706, or to a charity of the donor’s choice.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Published by Olean Times Herald on Sep. 10, 2024.
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