Clifford Scott "Coach" Stark

Clifford Scott "Coach" Stark, a longtime Alaskan resident and beloved figure in the community, passed away on March 8th, 2023, at the age of 62. He fought a courageous battle against pancreatic cancer but succumbed to complications arising from the disease. Born on March 22nd, 1960, in West Branch, Michigan, Scott was the son of Jack and Marie Stark, and moved with his family to Alaska in 1974.

Scott was widely recognized as an exceptional coach who left an indelible mark on the sporting landscape of Eagle River, and the Mat-Su Valley. His passion for football led him to coach various teams, including Chugiak High School Football JV, MYFA, and Pop Warner Football for many years. His dedication and expertise garnered him the prestigious Coach of the Year award from the Matanuska Youth Football Association, a testament to his unparalleled coaching skills.

Beyond his achievements on the field he was also widely respected in his career, returning to the University of Alaska Anchorage to earn his Bachelors of Science in Construction Management later in life. In addition to his many accomplishments, Scott's true impact was felt in the lives of those he touched. He was admired and respected by his players, colleagues, and the entire community. His ability to inspire and motivate his players extended far beyond the confines of the game. Many of his former players fondly recall his unwavering support, mentorship, humor and life lessons that went well beyond football. In his spare time, Scott was an avid lover of the Detroit Tigers and Bruce Springsteen, known as The Boss, respectfully, and was a downhill skiing fanatic.

Scott is survived by his loving wife, Bonny Rosella Stark, who stood by his side throughout his journey. He is survived by his three children; Jesse Lyn Stark, Zackery Scott Stark, Natalie Renee Stark, and by his granddaughters Nora Belle Stark, Abigail Grace Stark, and Maisie Kendall Stark. His legacy will live on through the memories they shared, pancakes he made, and that really weird old man mask he’d wear on Halloween to scare the neighborhood children with. But most importantly the values he instilled in them, and the enduring, perfect sense of humor which he blessed everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him with.

Scott is also survived by his siblings Clint Stark, Sherry Rynard, Steven Stark, Matthew Charles Stark, and is joined heaven-side by his sibling Christopher Shane Stark along with his mother and father, Jack and Marie.

The loss of Scott "Coach" Stark leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be remembered as a dedicated coach, a loving husband, a devoted father, a loyal brother, and a pillar of strength for all who knew him.

A memorial service to celebrate the life of Scott Stark will be held on May 25th at Community Covenant Church in Eagle River, at 4pm. Friends, family, former players, and members of the community are invited to attend and share their cherished memories of Coach Stark.

Floral tributes or gifts can be sent directly to the church by May 25th: 16123 Artillery Rd, Eagle River, AK 99577.