Robert “Bruce” Stark Jr., 86, of Fayetteville, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on June 17, 1931, he was the son of the late Robert Bruce and Ellen (Fremberg) Stark. He was born in Williamsport, PA and was raised in Jersey Shore, PA. After graduating high school he moved to Elmira, NY. It was in Elmira where he met and dated the love of his life, Lois. He proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps and upon being honorably discharged, he returned to Elmira where he worked as a carpenter and later married Lois Peck. They had two sons.

In 1968 he moved his young family to the Syracuse area to pursue a job opportunity and began working at the Hutchings Psychiatric Center as a vocational instructor, where he patiently taught Industrial Arts to residents at the facility. Bruce retired in 1990. He remained active in his church and with his hobbies of working on antique tractors, trucks and his many home improvement projects for himself, family and for his church.

Those who knew Bruce admired his fierce independence, his passion for working with his hands and his generous sense of duty to his church and community. He treasured his family above all else and was not only a father but a “best friend” to his two sons. His sense of humor, while at times corny, kept us entertained and laughing through many family gatherings. Bruce was curious about history, inventions and all things mechanical. He loved people and enjoyed joking and talking with everyone he encountered - a trait that surprises those who knew him in his more reserved younger days.

Bruce is loved and remembered by his wife of 64 years, Lois Peck Stark; his son and daughter-in-law, Kevin and Claudia Stark; his grandson, Kevin Stark Jr. (Jessica); and his great-granddaughter, Piper. He is also survived by his brother, Carl Stark (Rose Ann) of Jersey Shore; his sister, Elizabeth Shoemaker (Butch Gross) of Allenwood, PA; daughter-in-law, Kelly Wypych of Syracuse; and many nieces, nephews and dear friends.

He was predeceased by his oldest son, Robert “Bruce” Stark III; and two of his sisters, Muriel Vanemon and Carmen Kreger.

Relatives and friends may call on Sunday, October 15, 2017 from 2-4 pm at Eaton-Tubbs Fayetteville Chapel, 7191 E. Genesee St, Fayetteville. Funeral services will be held on Monday, October 16, 2017 at 10 am at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 7248 Highbridge Rd., Fayetteville. Burial will be in the Fayetteville Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Hospice of Central New York or the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Fayetteville, NY.