Martina Irene “Pookey” Stark, age 50, of South Bend, passed away on November 24, 2025, after a quick battle with cancer.

Born in South Bend, Martina lived a life that carried her across the country, spending a few years  between Montana, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Colorado before returning home. She will be remembered for her humorous, silly, and strong-willed personality — a presence that could make anyone laugh and one that left a lasting imprint on every room she entered.

As a child, Martina loved making cookies with her grandma, camping, and going to garage sales — simple joys that always remained close to her heart. Throughout her life, she enjoyed watching crime shows, playing online bingo, and spending time with her beloved cat, Mommy, while always carrying the memory of her dog Boo Boo, whom she dearly missed.

Martina loved her family deeply, and they were incredibly important to her. She always put others first, offering love, support, and kindness even when she faced her own challenges.

She is survived by her significant other, Carlos Lowery, who lovingly called her “my love” and served as her devoted caregiver for many years; her brothers, Corey Earley (Robin) and Dale Stark (Michelle); her cherished nieces and nephews; and many cousins who will forever carry her spirit with them.

She is preceded in death by her mother, Donna J. Malone, and her biological father, Dale Stark.

Martina’s memory will live on in the stories told, the love she shared, and the warmth she brought into the lives of all who knew her.

Elkhart Cremation Services have been entrusted with her care.