Richard "Dick" D. Stark

Dick Stark, recognized as the voice of Whatcom County sports, passed away surrounded by his loving family on July 19, 2022 at the age of 88. Known for his bright blue eyes, warm smile, gentle nature, and kind heart, Dick made a profound impact on the community he called home for nine decades. He enjoyed spending time with his family, boating in the San Juan Islands, spending time at Birch Bay, and golfing with friends. His faith in God was first and foremost in his life.

A native of Bellingham, Dick was born to Virgil and Gerrigje Stark in Bellingham, WA on April 24, 1934. He graduated from Bellingham High School in 1952 and attended the University of Washington, where he was a proud member of the Sigma Chi Fraternity and made lifelong friendships. Dick served in the US Army from 1956 until 1958 and served as a member of the “Old Guard” at Fort Meyer.

Upon returning to Bellingham, Dick graduated from Western Washington University before launching a lifelong career in radio sales and broadcasting. Some of his fondest memories were of college days spent on Alabama Hill at the T.K.B. House with his friends and members of the Western basketball team. He also enjoyed playing city league softball and was on the Bornstein’s basketball team for over 50 years. Dick played on the 50+ men’s basketball team that won the National Championships in 1992.

Among his numerous awards was his recent induction into the Washington State Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame and the Bellingham High School Hall of Fame. He was also awarded the Silver Helmet Awards from Washington State Coaches Hall of Fame.

Dick was a philanthropist and an enthusiastic contributor to the community and an active member at Cordata Church. He participated in two mission trips to Mexico to help build an orphanage and medical clinic. He was a co-founder of the Boys and Girls Club of Whatcom County, serving on the Board of Governors, he created the Mavericks Youth Basketball Team, and was a charter member of the Bellingham Bay Rotary Club. He owned the broadcast rights to the 2A State basketball tournament for twenty years, coordinating all the broadcast crews. He also owned and operated Stark’s TV & Video.

Throughout his life, Dick gave so much to so many while remaining humble.

Dick is survived by the love of his life Ardith Doty Stark, his children Leslie Stark, Ward Stark, Renee Stark (Dave Gailus), Evan Stark, and Yvonne Craig (Jedd), grandson Ethan Stark (Caitlyn), and great-grandson Parker Ewan Richard Stark.

A celebration of Dick’s life with reception following will be held on Thursday, August 4th at 11:30 AM at Cordata Presbyterian Church (formerly Birchwood Presbyterian), 400 Meadowbrook Ct. in Bellingham. Masks are encouraged.