Monty Orville Stark

Monty Orville Stark, of Republic, Missouri, passed away peacefully on March 6, 2026, surrounded by his family. Born on September 13, 1945, in Polson, Montana, to M.O. Stark and Rosalie (Linger) Stark, Monty was one of eight children. He graduated from high school in Montana before enlisting in the United States Navy, where he served his country honorably for more than 24 years, much of that time aboard aircraft carriers.

While serving in the Navy, Monty met Linda Bolden. The two married on March 17, 1978, and together welcomed their son, Brian. After retiring from the Navy, Monty worked for Reynolds Recycling, where he processed recycled materials, and later at the Masonic Temple in Virginia, earning a reputation as the “go-to guy” who could fix nearly anything or find the right person who could. He was an enthusiastic bowler who participated in a league at Andy B’s in Springfield for many years, a dedicated gardener who grew tomatoes, melons, cabbage, green beans, and other vegetables, an avid reader, and a great lover of animals, especially his beloved dogs Fancy and Precious.

Monty is survived by his wife of 48 years, Linda; son Brian Bolden; grandson Tommy Bolden; brothers Cody, Randy, and Denny Stark; sister Shirley O’Brian; and many extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Frances Hensley, and brothers Delbert and Darrel Stark.