Willi Josef Stark

Willi Stark, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend to all, passed away peacefully on April 12, 2026, at Tranquility Wellstar Hospice Care at Kennesaw Mountain. He devoted his life to his wife of 55 years, Brenda Stark, who preceded him in death in 2020.

Willi was born on February 14, 1941, in Linz, Austria, to Helmut and Leisolette Stark. He met the love of his life, Brenda, at the Germania Club in Poughkeepsie, New York, in the winter of 1960. Over the years, the family heard many fond stories of how Willi’s dancing skills won Brenda over. They were married on January 3, 1965, and soon after moved to Ohio, where Willi served in the United States Air Force.

Willi and Brenda eventually returned to Dutchess County, New York, where they raised their two children, Barbara Stark (Chiavelli) and Brian Stark. While working full time at IBM, Willi earned his Associate’s, Bachelor’s, and Master’s degrees—an accomplishment that reflected his determination, discipline, and belief in lifelong learning. He built a distinguished career at IBM East Fishkill, rising through the ranks and concluding his career as an executive who helped establish IBM’s first PC company manufacturing plant in China.

In 1991, Willi and Brenda joyfully welcomed Steven Chiavelli into the family when he married Barbara on May 25. After retirement, Willi and Brenda settled in The Villages, Florida, a place Willi enjoyed describing as “spring break every day” for retirees. After Brenda's passing Willi moved to Georgia to be close to his family.

Known lovingly as “Opa,” Willi was deeply devoted to his family. He had simple but powerful advice for the younger generations: find a job you enjoy, work hard, and make a good living. He treasured time spent with his grandchildren—Danielle Chiavelli (Morgan) and her husband, Zach Morgan; Michael Chiavelli; and Ryan Chiavelli—and delighted in his role as a great grandfather to Adrianna Bren Morgan and Hayley Blake Morgan.

Though our hearts now carry a loss that can never fully be filled, we will continue to honor Willi’s legacy of family, love, hard work, and devotion to one another.

Willi will be laid to rest at Georgia National Cemetery on May 8, 2026 at 10am. Friends who wish to honor his memory are invited to make a donation in his name to NewGround, an organization that supports families impacted by foster care and adoption by creating experiences that strengthen relationships, families, and community. (https://www.newgroundfoundation.org/)

Please share memories and condolences with the family at www.nationalcremation.com.