Billy Joe Startz

Billy Joe Startz, age 69, passed away Wednesday, August 1, 2012. He was born January 15, 1943 in Alice, Texas to the late William Joseph and Velma Startz. He was a member of the Indianola Baptist Church. He served in the United States Army National Guard. Billy Joe worked in the oilfield for many years, and was a member of the Sons of Hermann and the Fraternal Order of Eagles. He also enjoyed fishing and dancing, and was a very giving person. He will be missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his sons, Billy Ray Startz and Michael Joe Startz; daughters, Tanna Sue Koopman (Rickey), Connie Grabenstein (John Ruiz), and Tammy Startz (David Blakely), all of Olivia; sister, Connie Turner (Ed) of Nursery; brother, Kennith Allen Startz of Port Lavaca; twelve grandchildren, Gwen Ostler, Jessica Woods, William Joseph “Chris” Startz, Brian Williams, Justin Zavesky, Christopher Joseph Williams, Melissa Fay Grabenstein, Ashley Maria Grabenstein, Destiny Ruiz, Nicole Dables, Ryan Dables, and Matthew Startz; and 21 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Melba Fay Startz; sister, Rose Marie Lockwood; and brother, Rayford Glen Startz.

Visitation will be held 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm Thursday, August 2, 2012 at Colonial Funeral Home, Victoria. The Funeral Service will be held 10:00 am Friday, August 3, 2012 at the Hebron Baptist Church, with the Pastor Frank Boldt officiating. Burial will follow at the Hebron Cemetery.

Serving as pallbearers will be Matthew Startz, Justin Zavesky, Christopher Joseph Williams, Brian Williams, Larry Turner, and Gary Turner.

Memorial contributions may be made to Accolade Hospice or donor’s choice.

Words of comfort may be shared with the family at colonialfuneralhomevictoria.com