Martha Jane Stark

Martha Jane (Rudy) Stark, age 73, died peacefully with her daughters by her side on March 31, 2016 at her home in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, after battling leukemia. Marty was born in Piqua, Ohio, on December 8, 1942 to the late Albert and Mabel Rudy. She leaves to cherish her memory, her two daughters, Melissa (Chad) Ford of Highlands Ranch, CO, Amy (Michael) Morley of Highlands Ranch, CO and brother Harry Rudy of Pensacola, FL, grandchildren Benjamin, Jordan, Colin, and Blake.

After Marty graduated from Miami University of Ohio, she taught Home Economics in various places; such as Columbus, and Cincinnati, OH, Marblehead, MA, the island of Barbados, Grand Junction, AK, and Birmingham and Grande Blanc, MI before settling down for over 25 years in Shaker Heights and Chagrin Falls, Ohio. She enjoyed many years working as a substitute teacher in Chagrin Falls. She was a member of the Chagrin Valley Little Theater, enjoyed art classes; including watercolor and pottery. Marty appreciated the outdoors and nature, which inspired many of her pieces of art.

Marty was first, and foremost, a dedicated mother and grandmother. After spending most of her lifetime in Ohio, Marty followed her heart and made the bold move to Colorado in 2004 to join her children and their growing families. Whether she was engaging her grandchildren in sewing, reading, creating art projects, going to movies, or attending sporting events; they always brought tremendous joy to her life.

Marty is remembered for her kindness, sense of humor, artistic abilities, and genuine compassion for others. Some of her most joyous times were when she was painting, traveling, and spending quality time with those she loved; especially when she made them laugh.

Marty was curious about the world and especially embraced human love. She cherished her friendships and enjoyed having intellectual conversations and learning new things.

Throughout her life, in all situations, she was loving and forgiving. A spiritual woman, who genuinely accepted people of all faiths and beliefs, Marty embraced the importance of being a good person and treating others with respect. In her final days, she shared with us, “She was at peace with her walk with God.”

We deeply wish to express our sincere thanks to the Denver Hospice nurses, caregivers, and friends whose compassion and love not only extended her life, but enhanced the quality of her remaining time and enabled her to live as fully and as comfortably as possible.

She lived her last days to the fullest with dignity and grace.

A Celebration of Life Open House will be held at Marty’s home on Sunday, April 10th, 2016 from 1-4pm. Feel free to forward this note to anyone who we have missed.

In lieu of flowers, please send your donation to: americancancersocietyfoundation.com.

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