Regimental Number: M17536
Rank: Private
Thomas, born on September 30, 1920 in Cryant, South Wales, was the 5th oldest of John and Mary Elizabeth (nee Jones) Stark’s family of eight children. He had three brothers; John, William James and Doug and four sisters; Elizabeth, Mary, Isabel and Ann. The family immigrated to Canada and sailed aboard the SS Doric and arrived at Montreal on April 16, 1922. Once they arrived in Grande Prairie, John applied for land in the Bezanson area by means of a loan through the Solders’ Settlement Board. Thomas and his siblings attended the One-Room Somme School and One-Room Bezanson School. Thomas left school after completing Grade 8 and worked on his father’s farm from 1934 to 1940 during the summer months and worked in the bush in the wintertime.
Thomas enlisted with the Edmonton Regiment, RCASC on June 23, 1940 in Grande Prairie. He was transferred to Calgary, Kingston and Red Deer where he successfully completed courses to become a Qualified Driver IC 3rd Class. He embarked for the United Kingdom and arrived on June 25, 1942 where he continued to train before being sent to the field. He was discharged on June 30, 1945 in Calgary. Private Thomas Stark served in Canada, United Kingdom and the Central Mediterranean Area and received the 1939-45 Star, Italy Star, Defense Medal, Canadian Volunteer Medal and Clasp and the War Medal 1939-45.
Once discharged, Thomas returned to Bezanson and farmed the S ½ of 32-71-3-W6. He married Ruby Ames on March 25, 1949. They farmed in the Glen Leslie area; however, later sold the farm and the family followed Thomas to the various construction sites where he had found work. Thomas and Ruby had five daughters; Darlene, Gail, Faye, Rose-Marie and Lynn and one son, Alan.
Thomas died in a construction accident on May 21, 1964 and was buried at the Beechmount Cemetery in Edmonton.
Contributed by Wanda Zenner
Sources:
Service File
Smoky River to Grande Prairie