It’s with great sadness that I pass on some information I received yesterday. Steve Stark, Southern California Regional Director, passed away on Tuesday from a heart attack.
Steve spent 30+ years working at Motorola before he became a Regional Director in 2014. Steve was scheduled to transition from his role as Regional Director to FLL Operational Partner for Los Angeles in January 2019. I’m hoping that the community will be able to reply and fill in their personal experiences with Steve and anything they want to share about his background.
Steve was everywhere in Southern California, whether you knew or not. He was the backbone to so many regionals and other events, and could even be found making appearances at offseason events and across FIRST programs. I got to know Steve better this past year as we anticipated the transition of Steve becoming the FLL Partner. We judged together several times throughout the season, and I even helped train him (what a role reversal!) at his first ever FLL tournament.
Steve was someone who was never afraid to pick a side, whether it be with the teams or with FIRST, to stand up for what he thought was right. Steve had such humility and honesty, while always ensuring that progress would be made.
Steve, the friendly, smiling giant, will be greatly missed. I hope for comfort among Steve’s family (including his wife and long-time FIRST volunteer, Cindy) and his entire community.
I got word earlier today. Steve was always at events, always smiling, and just about always having fun even when he was working hard at a regional.
If Steve thought he needed to go to bat for you, you didn’t even need to ask. He’d be working on it as soon as he could. I know from experience–didn’t know I needed some backup until the process to get that backup was already happening, and Steve was asking for some information. A “quick” email later, and he was busy solving the problem.
One of the last conversations I had with him was just after Orange County ended this year–even though he was planning to transition, he was still finding the time to discuss the future of FRC in the area.
Steve was one of those people who - whatever else was going on - never forgot that FIRST is about the kids and about celebrating their hard work and dedication. He always had a smile - and made any event just a bit more fun. My heart breaks for Cindy and his family - he will be missed.
I only have known Steve for a short time but he made a big impression. The last time we talked he expressed his excitement about his new role. A very nice man, my condolences to all who knew him.
There will be a “celebration of life” in honor of Steve on June 30th in Laguna Woods, California. If you are interested in attending, please PM me with your email for details and RSVP.
