Mr. John “Jay” M. Roark, age 89 of Bolivar, MO, passed away Sunday, January 17, 2010, in Parkview Healthcare facility Bolivar, MO. He was born July 5, 1920, in Koshkonong, MO, to William and Mary “Tina” (Madden) Roark. He is a US Army WWII Veteran. He was united in marriage to Leona Mae Campbell August 12, 1942, and to this union three children were born. He was a member of the Bolivar Saddle Club, the Senior Bowling League at Speedway Lanes, and attended Mt. Gilead Methodist Church. He was an avid square dancer, and St. Louis Cardinals fan.
His parents; his wife of 43 years Leona Mae Roark; a brother Diton Roark; and a sister Juanita Ward precede him in death.
He is survived by his three children and their spouses: Margaret Crites and husband Larry of Bolivar, Joyce Hahn and husband Mack of Independence, MO, and Johnny Roark and wife Patricia of Bolivar, MO; one brother Herb Roark of Koshkonong, MO; five grandsons and their wives: Larry W. Crites and wife Melissa, Steve Crites and wife Angie, Jeff Park and wife Terri, Jason Roark and wife Rachel, and Brandon Roark and wife Abigail; 16 great grandchildren and one on the way (great grandson); as well as many other relatives and friends.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM Wednesday, January 20, 2010, in Pitts Chapel with Randy Ward officiating. Burial will follow in Crestview Cemetery. Musical selections of “What A Day” by Debi Stanek, and “When We All Get to Heaven”, “The Old Rugged Cross”, and “When I Walk The Last Mile of The Way” by Floodwater. Pallbearers will be Larry W. Crites, Steve Crites, Jeff Park, Jason Roark, Brandon Roark, Tyler Crites, and Cory Park. Visitation will be held Tuesday, January 19, 2010, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM in the funeral home. Friends and family may sign a guest book or send private condolences at: www.greenlawnfuneralhome.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Pitts Chapel Bolivar, MO.