12/7/2020
Paul D. “Biz" Stark, 72, of Gap PA, passed away on Dec. 7, 2020 after a short illness. He was born in Homestead, PA and graduated from Munhall High School. After attending Clarion State University, West VA University and Ohio State University, he fulfilled his greatest passion of teaching and coaching at the junior high school level. His dedication to mentoring both his students and players is reflected to their ongoing communication. The students in his Spanish class were so inspired by his teaching, they kept in communication with to each other in Spanish. He was voted Teacher of the Year 1975-1976.
His coaching led to interests in the Health Club Industry. Biz (with his wife by his side) decided to open Steel City Nautilus in Pittsburgh PA. He worked with a variety of sports teams at Pitt including the 1979 Football team led by QB Dan Marino and writing a book about Pitt football conditioning in that year. In addition to Pitt football, Biz also worked with Duquesne Basketball players. A relationship also developed with professional athletes such as Pirates Willie Stargell, Rennie Stennett, and other Bucco players, Penguin Hockey players and a number of Cincinnati Reds during their domination in the 1970's. In later years, Biz's endeavors included business consulting in a variety of areas.
He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Karen, his daughter Kristine and son James. He was preceded in death by his daughter Kelly, his mother and father. Biz had a lifelong love of sports, music, photography, fishing and spending time with his family.
His viewing will be private for the family. Interment will be private in Pittsburgh. Due to COVID-19, a memorial service will be planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Diabetes Assn. or St. Jude Children's Hospital.