Stark O. Cherry

Stark O. 'David' Cherry, 84, of Ronan, MT, passed away on Tuesday, January 19, 2010 at St. Luke Community Hospital, Ronan. David was born on June 26, 1925 in Pittsburgh, PA, and named after his father, Stark O. Cherry, Sr. His mother, however wanted him named David, and it stuck. He attended the Oakwood Academy in Huntsville, AL and the University of Pittsburgh. He served in the US Army from 1944 until 1946 where he was awarded the Asiatic-Pacific campaign medal with a Bronze Star. He also received a Good Conduct and Victory medal, the WWII Army Occupation medal, the WWII Japanese Clasp and the Philippine Liberation Ribbon. David went on to work for the railroad as a purchasing agent and in retirement, became a bartender in Las Vegas. He has enjoyed trips to Nova Scotia, Florida, California, and Old Mexico. His favorite car was his Cadillac. David loved Italian food and Russian classical music. He was a very optimistic person and truly believed in never giving up hope no matter what the situation may be. Those left with cherished memories are: three sisters, Fannie Cherry, Louise Cherry, and Gladdys Cherry: two stepsons, David Clairmont of Polson, MT and Corky Clairmont of Pablo, MT: a niece, Genne Umstead of Washington, DC: a nephew, James Lyons of Lexington, KY and David's best friend, Alf Salway of Ronan, MT and Winogene of Pablo, MT. The family wishes to express their appreciation to all the staff of St. Luke Extended Care Facility where David resided for the last several years. Visitation for friends and family will be held on Thursday, January 21, 2010 from 12 pm ' 6pm at Grogan Funeral Home, 101 Sixth Ave. E., Polson. A memorial service will be conducted on Friday, January 22, 1:00 PM at Grogan Funeral Home with Rev. Dick Widerholdt officiating. Gravside services with military honors will then be held at the Ronan Cemetery, Ronan following the memorial service on Friday at 2:30 PM. Messages of condolence may be sent tot the family online at www.groganfuneralhome.com. The staff at Grogan Funeral Home and Crematory, Polson, considers it a privilege to care for Mr. Cherry's family.
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