Dorothy Helen (Gula) Stark died Saturday, June 22, at the age of 92.

Dorothy was born in Grand Rapids April 4, 1932, to Joseph Charles and Mary Agnes Gula. She grew up in Grand Rapids and eventually made her way to the Wayland area, where she spent many summers with her grandparents on their farm and working at her uncle’s store, Joe’s Grocery near Gun Lake.

If stories are to be believed she met Harry in a tree at John Ball Zoo. They married and settled with their three girls on a few acres outside of Wayland. 

Dorothy and Harry enjoyed spending time in their garden and Dorothy continued to be surrounded by beautiful plants and flowers. They also enjoyed spending time together hunting for mushrooms and caring for their chickens.

Dorothy also enjoyed music and dancing, often playing Czech or Slovak music from her homeland to anyone who would listen. One of her favorite things was to get family and friends together around her player piano for a few songs and a quick chicken dance. 

Her table was nearly always covered with a puzzle and everyone was invited to put in a piece or two. She also loved cooking and passing along her special recipes. She was especially famous for her crepes, dumplings and home-made sauerkraut. She was also known for her unique collection of potato mashers that lined her walls. 

In her more recent adventures, she enjoyed visiting with her friends and trying her luck at the casino.

She is survived by daughters, Mary (Dave) Ward, Janet (Jay) Kraima, Nancy (Mike) Kanoza; eight grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and one great-great grandson as well as many special cousins and friends. 

She was preceded in death by her husband of 49 years, Harry A Stark, Sr. and her brothers, Joseph Gula and Louis Gula. 

Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held at noon Thursday, June 27, followed by a luncheon at Wayland VFW Post, 735 S Main St.