Willard Startz went to be with his Lord and Savior on January 8, 2019 at the age of 94. He was born December 20, 1924 to Henry Otto Startz and Beulah Rice Startz in New Braunfels. He was a 5th generation resident of New Braunfels. He graduated from New Braunfels High School and was soon drafted into the Army Air Corp where he was an expert marksman. Willard served in Guam and the Pacific in World War II.
Upon his return home, he married his high school sweetheart, Elaine Schueler Startz on September 28, 1946. They were married 70 years.
Willard was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Elaine and grandson Dennis Speicher. He is survived by his brother, Virgil Startz, sons Steven (Susan) Startz and Brett Startz. Granddaughter Lori Gunningham and great grandson’s Aidan and Liam Gunningham, and his precious dog Gretta Lynn.
Willard never met a stranger, loved to talk and loved hunting and fishing for flounder at Port Aransas and for salmon in Alaska. He will be greatly missed, but surely thrilled to join Elaine and other family members for a heavenly reunion.
A Graveside Service will be held Tuesday, January 15, 2019 at 11:00 am at Guadalupe Valley Memorial Park, officiated by Pastor Steve Peace of Oakwood Baptist. A reception will follow at Zoeller Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made, in Willard’s honor, to the American Heart Association.
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