Gary Stark, Former News 5 Director, Dies at 76
Gary Stark, the former Programming and Research Director at News 5, has passed away at the age of 76. According to his obituary in the Cleveland Jewish News, Stark died on Tuesday.
Stark dedicated 46 years to News 5, starting his career there in 1969 and retiring in 2015. During his tenure, he played a significant role in shaping the station’s legacy.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Gary Stark,” said WEWS Vice President and General Manager Steve Weinstein. “Gary was instrumental in shaping WEWS and will forever be part of our legacy. He was someone I came to know personally, someone I respected and admired.”
Stark received a standing ovation from the staff during his retirement party, a testament to his impact and respect within the organization.
He is survived by his wife, Sue, three children, and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
A service in his honor will be held at 11 a.m. on September 13 at Berkowitz-Kumin-Bookatz Memorial Chapel in Cleveland Heights. Stark will be laid to rest at Mount Olive Cemetery in Solon.
In recognition of his contributions, the largest conference room at News 5 was renamed the Stark Community Room upon his retirement in 2015.
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