James L. Starke

James L. Starke, 94, of Sedalia, passed away Sunday, August 13, 2023 at Bothwell Regional Health Center.

He was born August 28, 1928, in Smithton, a son of the late John C. and Mayme L. (Smith) Starke. On June 11, 1950, in Sedalia, he married Elaine Clarice Nelson, who preceded him in death on April 19, 2021. They had been married 70 years.

James was a 1947 graduate of Smith-Cotton High School. He served his country honorably in the US Army 1950-1952 during the Korean War.

He worked in the meter department for Missouri Public Service for 44 years.

James was a member of Epworth United Methodist Church and served many years on the Board of Trustees. He also served on the Open Door Ministries board and Animal Control board for the City of Sedalia.

He enjoyed fishing, watching the Royals, Cardinals and Chiefs on TV, and working on handyman projects around the home. He loved dogs and cats.

James will be remembered for his great laugh, being a jokester, always willing to lend a helping hand and being a loving father.

Survivors include three children: David Starke (Heidi), of Windsor, Deborah DeGraff (Doug), of Lee’s Summit and Steven Starke (Nopawan), of Sedalia; five grandchildren: Chad Starke, Chrissy Starke, Matt Starke, Nick Organ and Mia Phutrakul; and four great-grandchildren.

In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by six siblings, John “Bill” Starke, Clarence Starke, Mary Wallington, Mabel Pruitt, Gertrude Jennings and Grace Starke.

Funeral service will be 11:00 am, Monday August 21, 2023 at Heckart Funeral Home with Rev. Gene Page officiating.

Pallbearers will be Chad Starke, Chrissy Starke, Matt Starke, Nick Organ, Kainan Harrell, Dillion Starke, Gaven Starke and Zane Starke.

Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery with full military honors.

Visitation will be 10:00 am until service time at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Epworth United Methodist Church in care of Heckart Funeral Home.