LARRY EDWARD STARKEY

6/21/1949 - 5/3/2025

The AHS Class of 1968 is saddened to to announce that Larry Starkey passed away on Saturday, May 5, 2025 in Ashland, Ohio. Larry was a beloved husband, father, friend, and will be missed by all who knew him. A life well lived, Larry will be remembered for his kindness and his ability to find humor in virtually every situation. 

Larry Edward Starkey, 75,  passed away at UH Samaritan Hospital on Saturday May 3rd following an extended illness. 

Larry (with twin brother Terry) was born June 21st, 1949, sons of Irene (McGilton) and EJ Starkey in New Philadelphia, Ohio. When he was 6 years old the family moved to Los Angeles, California for one year before moving to Ashland where his lfather started Starkey Glass Company. Larry graduated from Ashland High School in 1968 and Cleveland Engineering Institute in 1970. From there he entered the National Guard where he served from 1970-1975. He married Donna J Staffeld in 1971 At Bethel Lutheran Church in Westmont, Illinois. He joined his father’s glass company becoming owner in 1976 until 2012. He became successful in adding many aspects to the business that had not been done prior. Twin sons were added to the family in 1976 and a daughter in 1983. He belonged to Trinity Lutheran Church in Ashland and served on many committees such as church council and was a member of the Christian Living SS Class. He served as co-leader of Boy Scouts, various community organizations, United Way committees, School Levy Committees, Ashland sports projects as well as others always supporting city advancement. 

Larry was a person who loved his fellow man. He considered himself blessed so was generous and philanthropic, donating to many charities but also helping those who had just run into bad luck. His heart was large even in later years when he had less himself. 

His sense of humor was second to none. He enjoyed teasing and joking with those he came into contact with daily. If he could make a smile, it made his day. 

Larry was a fishing enthusiast going whenever possible, …but catching very little. He and his wife owned a pontoon boat moored at Charles Mill Marina for 11 years. He was happiest when he could take family, friends and neighbors out on the lake for fishing, cards or a picnic. 
His greatest joy was being with his family and especially grandchildren watching their sporting events or scholastic honors. His pride in each of them was only surpassed by his love for them. 

Larry was preceded in death by his parents; Irene and Joe Starkey, his twin brother Terry, his infant sister Sandra, and sister and brother in law, Phyllis and Chuck Gretzinger, and one nephew, Chuckie Gretzinger. Also, in laws Don and Jean Staffeld and sister in law Rebecca Moss. 

He is survived by wife, Donna, sons Michael (Lori ) Starkey of N.Ridgeville, Ohio , Timothy (Sarah) Starkey of Pickerington, Ohio and daughter Chelsea (Whitney)Uselton of Ashland. 8 grandchildren: Mia Shamis, Luke Harris, Cooper Starkey, Bailey Starkey, Emma Starkey, Bryden Bolen, Jax and Wyatt Uselton. 1 great granddaughter: Sienna Harris. Also nieces and nephews.
The family wishes to thank those who cared for Larry through Western Reserve Hospice Respite as well as Gentiva Hospice, Dr Pierre, Dr Tavalee & nursing staff of UH Samaritan. 

In Memory - AHS68.net Website