Patricia J. "Pat" Vulgaris' Obituary
Patricia J. “Pat” Vulgaris, age 67, passed away unexpectedly at home on Thursday, March 5, 2026. She was born on February 28, 1959, in Muskegon, Michigan, to Dolores and James Stark Jr., where she remained a lifelong resident. Pat graduated from Muskegon Catholic Central with the Class of 1977 and continued her education in cosmetology school. She later built a long and dedicated career with Meijer, where she worked as a retail sales analyst for 27 years. On November 7, 1989, she married the love of her life, Christopher Vulgaris, in Muskegon. Together they shared 36 wonderful years filled with love, laughter, and devotion. Pat was a woman of many talents. She was creative and loved sewing, often making beautiful homemade quilts for her family to cherish. She was also known for preparing delicious dinners and sweet treats that many were fortunate to enjoy. As the matriarch of her family, Pat always tried to outdo herself with something bigger and better. Nothing she did was ever small, she poured her heart and soul into everything involving the people she loved. Kind-hearted and generous, Pat left a lasting impact on all who knew her and will be deeply missed. She is survived by her loving husband, Chris Vulgaris; five children, Jennifer Boutell-Woods, Richard (Nikki) Boutell, Christa Boutell, Calla (Tom Russell) Vulgaris and Leah (Nicholas) VanderBerg; 13 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; five siblings, Sondra (Don) Brown, James (Sue) Stark III, David (Katie) Stark, Marilyn (Ron) Rymal and Lori (Joseph) Robinson; sister-in-law, Gwen Stark; and many dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Terrie Bird; brother, Thomas Stark Sr.; infant sister, Carolyn Stark; and two nephews, Thomas Stark Jr. and Roger Bird. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444 with visitation one-hour prior. Memorial Contributions in Pat’s honor can be directed to the American Heart Association or the American Diabetes Association. Share memories with the family at https://www.sytsemafh.com.
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