Richard Dean Starr

Richard Dean Starr, age 87, passed away December 20, 2021. Commonly known as Dean, he had a smile for everyone he met. Dean was born July 1, 1934 in Menlo, Iowa to Valentine and Irene Starr. After graduating from high school in Menlo, Dean was drafted into the U.S. Army and served from April 1954 through February, 1956 when he was discharged honorably as a Specialist 3 Corporal.

Dean met the love of his life, Mary while they were attending Northwest Missouri State University. They were married August 8, 1959 in Stuart, Iowa and shared a happy, loving life for 58 years until her death in 2018. Dean and Mary had two children, Valerie and Craig, who both predeceased Dean.

With a teaching degree earned in 1960, Dean taught industrial arts in the Raytown School District for 30 years. He was a skilled craftsman who built furniture for his family and friends. As a teacher, Dean was well-respected and left lasting impressions on his students, inspiring them to use their talents.

After retiring from teaching, Dean decided to be a car salesman because he enjoyed people so much. He was a standout for the Chrysler-Plymouth dealer in Raytown, where he earned several awards as top salesman. His easy style and friendly manner made him a natural fit with potential buyers. There was no Push in Dean. He just let people make their own decisions.

Dean is survived by his granddaughter, Destanie Horracks.

A service will be held on Thursday, December 30 at 10 a.m. at Newcomer’s Floral Hills Funeral Home, 7000 Blue Ridge Blvd., Raytown. Family requests that masks be worn by those whose attend services.