Mary Lou Stark

I knew my life would end someday… well I have been informed that on December 20th, that day came.

I suppose I should give you all some background on my life so as to prepare you for that day. I’ll keep it short, sweet, and to the point… On December 4, 1933 my parents Ferdinand and Louise Bain celebrated my birth.  I was introduced to all as Mary Louise Bain in Little Rock, Arkansas. Shortly thereafter our family moved to Shreveport, Louisiana where I spent my formative years.

My parents’ loving care was augmented by the larger than life figures of (Big Poppa) Hollace and (Big Momma) Ida Bain, my grandparents. My childhood was blessed until one day, my father died of a brain aneurysm when I was only 14.  Being an only child and losing a parent so early in life, I decided then and there I would have a big family of my own someday. Like so many things that seem of little significance in the moment, they take on a greater importance as I reflect now.  Life works that way - once you develop some perspective, you realize that memories and stories are all that remain.

Memories and stories…where do I begin? I remember endless days and nights spent with my loving family and playing with my imaginary close friends Mouson and Quickie Doors. I remember the feel of those muggy Louisiana nights and the smell of magnolias everywhere. I remember the thrill of watching Mardi Gras parades and many other spontaneous celebrations for which Southerners are famous.  And I wouldn’t have it any other way.

After departing home to attend Southern Methodist University in Dallas, I met and married the man of my dreams (tall, red, and handsome) on June 18, 1955.  From that day on I was proud to be Mrs. Charles Stark. Our plan was to move to Kansas where Charlie’s parents lived and start a family.

Charlie and I had five beautiful children that would go on to start families of their own. I truly loved Wichita and the many friends and extended family we made there. No matter what the circumstance, my family were loved and they loved in return. So many memories were created at our home, Spring Creek Farm in Wichita; on our houseboat, the Casa Del Lago at Grand Lake Oklahoma; and on the many trips to Santa Fe.  These memories make my mind swim with joy.  Though many times, the best memories were simple gatherings or dinners at home. I made it a point to welcome everyone and be gracious, as only us Southerners can.

So in the end, remember…be kind and love others, do your best always, and make the story of your life something you are proud of. Also never stop smiling… it worked for me.

I'll leave you with this…when you think of our memories you should feel love, because you are loved unconditionally by God.

Mama Lou~

Mary Lou Stark passed away on Dec 20th, 2019. Mary Lou was preceded in death by her husband, Charles M. Stark, and survived by her sons, Doug (Kathi) Stark, Scott (Kari) Stark, Charles Bain (Brenda) Stark and Jody (Nicole) Stark; daughter, Leigh Anne (Jason) Ramsey; grandchildren, Kasey (John) Breidenthal, Kari (Don-Paul) D'Elia, Anna (Clark) Scott, Jack Stark, Austin Stark, Mary Ramsey, Aaron Stark, Hank Ramsey, Michael (Gus) Stark, and William Stark and great-grandchildren, Kellen Breidenthal, Clay Breidenthal, and Remy D'Elia.

A celebration of life service will be held 3:00pm Friday, January 25th at Plymouth Congregational Church.

A memorial has been established with Wichita Senior Services Building Campaign 200 S. Walnut, Wichita Kansas 67213.

Share condolences at www.CozineMemorial.com. Services by Broadway Mortuary.