John you raised me from a child to an adult.  I miss you so much more then anyone knows.  You raised my daughter as one of your own.  You not only treated her as an granddaughter and a daughter.  She has grown up to be a beautiful woman and I know that she loves you so much.  Ben misses you also.  He misses the walks that you two would take.  He misses the times that you spent time with him.  He is growing to be a man like you always dreamed him to be.  I hope that you looking over us and am proud of us.  I taking care of mom and will always take care of mom in the fashion you want me to.  John you mean more to me that I can ever express to you.  You taught me things like building fence, planting a garden, chasing cows, bailing hay etc.  I was the typical city girl but truly now I am a country girl.  I love you and miss you.  Your daughter always

Life has started to go on in a "new normal". It is easier to believe that you are out in the fields or the barns....than to face the facts that you are in heaven...You are missed....

You taught me perseverance and loyalty, love and friendship, my only wish, to show you just how much you meant to me. You were there always for my Mother and for us, Thank You....

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

Uncle John's passing made me realize what an impact he made on my life, I regret that my children Gavin & Elina will never get to know him.  Never play on the farm as I did as a child, or ride on the back of his bike as we rode over the hills.  Nor get advice on how to deal with steers & sheep, practical advice that works great with people as well.  It is amazing me all the little ways that he has influenced me, many of them I only realize on reflection.  
This weekend while sweeping my walk I recall Uncle John teaching me how to sweep out the barn, and how he always said do it right, so you only have to do it once, again advise that has greater impact throughout my life.

John was a wonderful person who left a lasting impression on so many people. He was a true friend and neighbor for over 18 years; we will miss him very much. Our thoughts are with you always. Please know John will always be with you

For many years John raised cattle that were used to feed his extended family and for children to enjoy.  He took great pride and satisfaction in taking care of his farm land and many animals.  Along with hired help filled his huge barn with many bales of hay that were used to feed his numerous cows or that were later sold.  John truly loved his farm.  In 2007 I brought my, grandson, Zachary, to The Farm to help his crew stack hay.  I asked John why he did not cut the remaining trees down. John said, "Then there will be no place to the critters to go."  Before John retired from the WSDOT in 2004, he especially enjoyed walking his big dog past the gigantic barn out into the fields of hay.  
Miss you, John, But I am happy you are at peace now.
Love you Always, Sister Phyllis

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

OBITUARY

John Lawrence Starke

November 15, 1933 – April 25, 2012

Sticklin Funeral Chapel

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