Raymond C. Stark, (82) of Fairfax, Iowa, passed away on March 20, 2024. Raymond, fondly known as Ray or by the nickname Ramo by close friends, was born to Charles and Martha on December 29, 1941 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Ray was baptized and served as an altar boy at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, commonly known as Stark Settlement Church, located on the original homestead of the Stark family, until it was closed in 1959.

Ray was a farmer with a homestead west of Cedar Rapids, living his entire life on the farm established by his ancestors which were among the first pioneers of Iowa in 1855. A talented and accomplished athlete, Ray graduated from Atkins High School and was a starter all four years on their varsity teams in baseball and basketball. His accomplishments often highlighted in the newspaper, including pitching a no-hitter as a freshman. Ray remained lifelong friends with many of his teammates.

Ray joined the Army in 1960, training in Fort Lenard Wood as a field communication specialist, and was an Army reservist for many years after serving his term. Ray's farm is located near the Ced-Rel Supper Club, a popular restaurant now closed, located on land purchased from the Starks beginning back in 1927 when it started as a gas station. Ray could often be found spending time with fellow farmers and friends at Ced-Rel, his deep, boisterous laugh echoing through the supper club.

A classic car enthusiast, Ray had a beautifully restored 1958 Chevy Impala, the make and model of his first car. Ray enjoyed taking his car to auto shows, often winning Best in Show with his numerous trophies overtaking several rooms around the house, proudly displayed for visitors to enjoy. Later in his life, he traveled to many destinations around the world with his friends including a trip to Gramschatz, Germany, the original home of the Stark ancestors. He enjoyed researching genealogy and family history with his son Daniel. Forever an Iowan, Ray enjoyed spending his winters in Fort Meyers, Florida with family and friends.

Ray is survived by his longtime companion, Dru Brunssen.  His four children, Christopher (Pamela) Stark, Amie (Robert) Taylor, Daniel (Mary) Stark, and Mark Stark. His grandchildren Nicholas, Samuel, Nicole, Annie, Allie, Charlotte, Maxson, Zaida, and Quentin.   He is also survived by his sisters, Darlene Kucera and Carol McNulty and his ex-wife, Linda Stark.  He was preceded in death by his parents and his sisters Mary Koopman and Dorothy Stark.

A private ceremony will be held to celebrating Ray's life.  His final resting place will be at St. Joseph, commonly known as Stark Cemetery, alongside his pioneer ancestors.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Hospice of Mercy, Stoney Point Gardens and The Gardens of Cedar Rapids.

Memorials may be directed to the family.