Norris Ralph Stark
Norris “Cy” Ralph Stark, 90 of Charlotte, an extraordinary tractor mechanic and farmer, died February 12, 2024 at home with his family by his side. He was born October 16, 1933 in Battle Creek, the son of Norris and Dorothy (Hoag) Stark, attended Central High School in Battle Creek his freshman and sophomore years, and then Olivet High School his Junior and Senior Years, playing basketball and earning many awards. The biggest award ever, though, was meeting his future wife at a basketball game just after he graduated from high school. Since he had already graduated and she was still in high school, their courtship took several years, often with distance being an obstacle in their relationship, but in the end they married on New Year’s Day 1956.
Instead of attending college, Cy decided to become a farmer. With his dad, he purchased his first farm on 5 Point Highway in 1956 which included an old farmhouse, and while it needed lots of repairs, Cy and Shirley did so together and filled the home with love as they raised their four sons. Cy was a full-time farmer until 1968, when he was hired by D.E. Wertz as a tractor mechanic by day, and continued farming at night. He was great with all types of tractors, but specialized in the more modern models. A mechanic’s mechanic, Cy was never too busy to answer a question on how to fix something or help someone out. He never relied on modern technology, he would trouble shoot simply by listening to the tractor and its symptoms. After 22 years at Wertz, he also worked at J.R. Fueslein Inc. for five years, and Filmore’s Implement for three years.
Cy is survived by his sons, Richard (LeAnn) Stark, Bob (Lisa) Stark, John (Connie) Stark, and Thomas (Linda) Stark; ten grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandchild; and sister, ZoeAnn Baxter. He was predeceased by his wife, Shirley; and one great-grandson.
Friends are encouraged to support Cy’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Wednesday, February 14, 5-8:00 p.m. Funeral services were Thursday, February 15, 11:00 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor Josh Burt officiating. The funeral will be webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on Cy’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Elara Caring Hospice or Grace Community Church in Nashville. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.