John E. “Jack” Starkey

Memorial services for John E. “Jack” Starkey, 91, of Lawrence, will be held at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, September 6, 2014, at Warren-McElwain Mortuary, with visitation ahead of the services beginning at 1:30. Military Honors at Oak Hill Cemetery will follow the memorial service. He died Thursday, August 21, 2014, at Brandon Woods at Alvamar.

Jack was born at home on July 5, 1923, in Flossmoor, IL, the son of George and Harriett (Nilles) Starkey.

Jack served his country during World War II in the Navy, stationed in the South Pacific.

He worked 33 years at the Lawrence Journal World in advertising and retired in 1988.

Jack was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Lawrence, a life member of the American Legion Dorsey-Liberty Post #14, and an associate life member of the KU Alumni Association. He had been active with the Luncheon Optimist Club and had been a volunteer for the Lawrence Memorial Hospital escort program. He served as president and board member of the local Red Cross and was also on the Lawrence Traffic Commission and on the board of Warm Hearts. Jack enjoyed music, fishing and playing golf. He also enjoyed being around people and attending various coffee groups, including the J.O.Y. group (Just Older Youth).

He married Margarett A. Fisher on June 30, 1946, in Lawrence, Kansas. She preceded him in death.

Survivors include a daughter, Melinda Starkey Maturo, Olathe, KS, and three grandchildren, Heather, Taylor and Matthew Maturo.

The family suggests a memorial in his name to the Dorsey Liberty Post #14 American Legion Building Fund, Lawrence Memorial Hospital endowment fund, Brandon Woods Employee Recognition Fund, or Crossroads Hospice, and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary.