Christer Stark

June 22, 1941 - September 26, 2010

Christer G. Stark of Philomath died peacefully at the age of 69 on Sunday at his home, in the care of family. He was born in Vaasa, Finland, to Florence Harriet Stark and George Gunaropulus. Christer was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and a graduate of Oregon State University, with degrees in zoology and animal science. Christer married Karen Lea Twilleager on June 22, 1974, in Corvallis, and was sealed to his bride on June 28, 1980, in the Idaho Falls, Idaho, Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Christer raised his family in the Willamette Valley, and worked for 23 years as an electronic technician at the Hewlett-Packard Co. plant in Corvallis. Christer's hobbies were many, and included family camp-outs, hiking, gardening, emergency preparedness, bicycle repair, electronics and mechanical work. He loved to build and fix things. His love for building led him to constructing their home in Philomath personally from the ground up, assisted by many family members and friends in the area. He was dedicated to several organizations, including the Boy Scouts of America, for which he was a Scout Master. He was a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association, and a dedicated patriot who loved the United States of America without question. He served in many callings in his church, to include stake missionary, Sunday school teacher and various positions in the young men's organization. Survivors include his wife, Karen Lea Twilleager of Philomath; sons Paul L. Stark of Philomath, Sean C. Stark of Portland, Robert W. Stark of Coos Bay, Benjamin W. Stark of Flagstaff, Ariz., and Jeremiah C. Stark of Spokane, Wash.; and daughters Charlene E. Duncan of Philomath, Bethany L. Madden of Rigby, Idaho, Sarah L. Stark of Albany, and Jennifer F. Stark of Philomath. Christer is also survived by Monica, Brett, Amy and Heather, children from previous marriages. A memorial service will take place at 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 2, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 150 James St. in Philomath.