The Haxtun-Fleming Herald - What can we reason but from what we know? -Alexander Pope

Larry Bruce Starkebaum was called home on March 4, 2022. He passed away at Melissa Memorial Hospital in Holyoke surrounded by his family at the age of 68.

Larry was born on June 29, 1953 in Haxtun to Clark and Laverne Starkebaum. He was known to be very ornery in his younger years and was active on his family farm and with sports. Upon graduation from Haxtun High School in 1971, Larry played college football at Western State College in Gunnison and later settled south of Holyoke to ranch and farm at South Valley Ranch. Larry had a passion for ranching and farming which translated to a very successful career.

Due to health complications, Larry retired early and moved back to Haxtun where he found his new passion, woodworking. Larry used his craft to bring joy and comfort to many individuals. Many were blessed to receive a treasured graduation box that was "Handcrafted by Larry Starkebaum." He also left treasured gifts behind for his loved ones to cherish for generations to come. What a legacy! Larry could also be found tending to his expansive garden or enjoying his ducks on a handcrafted bench in the afternoon shade.

On May 19, 1997, Larry dedicated his life to Jesus Christ. He was an active member of the Haxtun Berean Bible Church and more recently the New Hope Church. He tremendously enjoyed performing in numerous cantatas, helping package Christmas boxes, attending many men's bible studies and building lasting relationships with fellow Christians. Larry never knew a stranger and was a friend to all. Larry was known for his positive attitude, smile and overwhelming aura of Joy. Larry treated every day as a gift from God. His motto was "love God and love each other." Larry demonstrated this every single day.

In his later years, Larry especially loved being a grandfather. He spent as much time as he could with his grandchildren and if he had the opportunity, he would tell you all about them!

Larry was a cherished son, beloved brother, loving father and fun uncle.

Larry is survived by his mother Laverne Starkebaum, Haxtun; siblings Deborah and Rick McConnell, Johnston, Iowa, John and Julia Starkebaum, Haxtun, Steve Starkebaum, Haxtun, and Kari Starkebaum, Bayfield; children Lisa Starkebaum and Lamar Elegino, Sparks, Nev., Russell and Kate Starkebaum, Lafayette, Calif., Clinton and Tori Starkebaum, Laramie, Wyo., and Maddie and Morgan Eurich, Holyoke. Larry is also survived by four beautiful grandchildren Luke, Bryce, Ian and Rory as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Larry is preceded in death by his father Clark Starkebaum and sister-in-law Debbi Starkebaum.

A funeral service will be held Saturday, March 12 at 2 p.m. at the New Hope Church in Haxtun.