Sidney Stark, Jr.
April 28, 2019

Sidney Stark, Jr., of Squirrel Hill, passed peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, April 28, 2019. Cherished father of Seth Stark and his wife Sharon, grandfather of Majack Alexander-Stark and her husband Spyke, great-grandfather of Yofi Stark, preceded in death by his beloved wife Shirley and son Sidney Stark, III. He was born and raised in Pittsburgh, where he raised his family, was a successful businessman, and fully immersed himself in the city’s arts, music, and cultural offerings. Sidney graduated from Columbia University with a Master’s Degree in English in 1951. Sidney founded SOS Technologies, where he served as President and CEO until the age of 80.   Sidney was a season ticket holder of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra for 75 years, from the age of 15, and an active supporter of the Pittsburgh Opera and many other music and cultural organizations. He also frequently traveled to New York City to attend performances by the Metropolitan Opera, which he continued to experience in later years by simulcast performances in Pittsburgh theaters. Sidney managed the Rodef Shalom music series for over 20 years, auditioning and bringing young classical artists to perform in Pittsburgh from across the country. He was an accomplished amateur pianist, and played trios for 40 years. Sidney and his wife Shirley were voracious travelers, visiting five of the world’s seven continents in their 59 years of marriage. Sidney’s love of life and conversation were and will continue to be an inspiration to his family and many friends for many years to come. Services at Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc., 5509 Centre Avenue, Shadyside on Friday at 11 AM. Visitation one hour prior to services (10 - 11 AM). Interment West View Cemetery of Rodef Shalom Congregation. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, 600 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 or the Pittsburgh Opera, 2425 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222. www.schugar.comSid

Condolences

So sorry to read about Sidney’s death. What a sweet sensitive man. I always enjoyed chatting with him. I had known and enjoyed the company of Sidney and Shirley since I first knew them in the fifties. He loved his family, gobbled up good literature and always shared unique opinions, had a genious for scouting musical talents, and we could count on his frank comments about politics. He will be missed. X

Sidney was a wonderful, generous, kind and engaging person. He always spoke lovingly of Shirley, his family, the symphony and the Pittsburgh Opera. He was a long time, enthusiastic and extremely valuable member of the board of the Squirrel Hill Urban Coalition where he served the community tirelessly and where I had the privilege of becoming his friend.

Seth and Sharon...Thank you for sharing your father (and mother) with us during our many family gatherings. He was truly a wonderful man and we will miss his incredible knowledge about the world and his goodness and kindness and love to all. We are always here for you and Sharon and love you very, very much. We personally know how very difficult to lose a beloved family member and want you to know we are your family now and forever.

Sid was a wonderful neighbor during the 15 years we have lived on the same floor at the Park Mansions. We enjoyed a convivial relationship with both Sid and Shirley, and will miss them. Their presence was always uplifting. We offer our heartfelt condolences to their family.

Dear Stark Family, My husband, Dick, and I were neighbors of Sidney and Shirley in the Park Mansions for about 18 years. We are sorry not to be in town on Friday for the visitation to pay our respects to such a wonderful man. I don't think I ever saw Sidney when he wasn't smiling -- exactly like the picture you have posted. Sidney and Shirley were kind and lovely people and the world was a better place for their presence. They will be missed. -- Jeanne Berdik