Richard Starks

Richard Starks, age 90 of Midland, passed away peacefully on Monday May 30, 2016 at the Aleda E. Lutz Veterans Memorial Hospital in Saginaw surround by his family. Richard was born in Homer Township on May 30, 1926 where he was raised and educated. He served in the United States Navy Seebees during World War II from 1943-1946 in the Philippines. Richard started in politics in Homer Township as a Justice of the Peace, a Trustee and then went on to become Township Supervisor. He also was a volunteer member with the Homer Township Fire Department for many years. Richard worked at The Dow Chemical Co. for over 40 years as a welder in the Boiler Shop and then took a job at The Dow Center until his retirement in 1982. He was a Boy Scout and Cub Scout Leader, and also manager of a Westown Little League Baseball Team. Richard was interested in country music and collected musical instruments, but was especially interested in banjos and would like to tell people he had 33 banjos-and he did! He enjoyed spending time at their winter home in Bradenton, Florida, going to Flea Markets and rummage sales. Richard was a member of Christ United Methodist Church in Bradenton, Florida, American Legion Berryhill Post 165 and a life member of DAV and VFW.

Surviving is his wife of 69 years the former Ilene E. Riggie of whom he married on November 8, 1946; children, Steven (Sharon) Starks, Debbie (Rick) Finney all of Midland; granddaughter, Vicki (Dave Warner) Starks; great grandchildren, Autum, Collin and Jordan; sister in law, Connie Glynn. Richard was preceded in death by his mother, Bulah Starks; sister in law, Bea Mapes; brothers in law, Ivan and Algin Riggie.

Funeral services for Richard will take place 11:00 a.m. Thursday June 2, 2016 from Wilson MILLER Funeral Home with Rev. Josheua E. Blanchard of Homer United Methodist Church and Rev. Michael Sawicki of Aldersgate United Methodist Church officiating. Interment will follow in Homer Township Cemetery with Military Honors being provided by the United States Navy Funeral Honors and the Midland Area Veterans. Family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday morning from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Memorials may be offered to Hearing Loss Association of America. Personal messages of condolence maybe offered to the family at www.wilson-miller.com

Thursday, June 02, 2016
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Wilson MILLER Funeral Home
4210 N. Saginaw Rd
Midland, Michigan 48640

Thursday, June 02, 2016
11:00 AM

Wilson MILLER Funeral Home
4210 N. Saginaw Rd
Midland, Michigan 48640