Betty J. Stark

Betty J. Stark, 92, of Monticello, died at 10:30 am Sunday, July 18, 2010 at St. Elizabeth Central Hospital of Lafayette. She was born in Gary on April 11, 1918 to the late Ralph and Jennie (Barkhurst) Brasaemle. She married James M. Stark on May 22, 1966 in Gary. He preceded her in death on February 15, 1986. She was a graduate of Lew Wallace High School in Gary and a 1940 graduate of Purdue University with a Bachelor of Science degree from the school of science. She was a member of Alpha Chi Omega Sorority. During World War II, she entered the Navy (Waves) as an Ensign and was discharged 3 years later as Lieutenant. She worked in Chicago as an executive secretary for a theatre chain for 16 years. During this period, she was very active in the American Contract Bridge League (ACBL), achieving the rating of Life Master. She and her husband moved to Monticello in 1967 purchasing and operating the Town & Country Inn. They rebuilt the Tavern and added the Restaurant after the tornado in 1974, which they operated until selling in April of 1983. Mrs. Stark was a member of the Monticello United Methodist Church where she was involved in many aspects of the church including Trustee, member of Helen Wilke Circle, past president of the United Methodist Women, Rainbow, and in 1997 became Financial Secretary of the church. For several years, she was president and tour director of Twin Lakes Senior Citizens. She was also a member of the Women of the Moose, the American Legion Post #81, and the Legion Auxilary. She is survived by caregivers Charlotte Wheeler of Monticello, and Marilyn Williams of Brook. Visitation will be from 2pm until 4pm Sunday, July 25, 2010, at Springer-Voorhis-Draper Funeral Home. Funeral services will be at 10:30 am, Monday at the funeral home with Rev. Brian Beeks of the Monticello United Methodist Church officiating. Burial will follow at Riverview I.O.O.F. Cemetery with full military rites. In lieu of flowers, and in honor of Bettys wishes, memorial donations may be given to the Monticello United Methodist Church. You may sign the online guestbook at www.springervoorhisdraper.com