Mr. Daniel Lee Starks

Daniel Lee Starks, 73 of Charlotte, passed away Friday, February 18, 2022.   Born in Rochester, New York on May 20, 1948, Dan was the son of the late Homer and Eva Madelyn (Austin) Starks. Dan moved to Charlotte in 1986 and founded the Starks Training Institute, Inc in 1989. Dan was known to many for his "Don't be a Victim" spots on WCNC as well as his "Partners Against Crime" and "the Don't Be A Victim" series. He was also an Emmy Award Winner. Dan and his life partner Connie Smigiel believed in personal safety. Together they taught self defense class and firearm safety and carry conceal classes. Mr. Starks was ranked as the number one NRA instructor/recruiter in the country in 2009. His clients ranged from housewives, FBI and Secret Service Agents as well as businessman, politicians, sports figures. Dan was a member of American Women's Self-Defense Organization, Infragard, National Range Officers Association and the National Speakers Association. Over the years, Dan and Connie received many awards, but one of most prestigious honors was being Knighted on January 13, 20912. Recognized by the Knights of Malta, Federation of Autonomous Priories at European Knighting Ceremony, Dan was Knighted by Sir George Popper, the Lieutenant General of the Federation and Grand Collar of the Sovereign Order of Cyprus. The sword used in the ceremony is used in the knighting ceremony, it is over a 1000 years old and kept in Austria. Dan is survived his loving partner Connie Smigiel, of Charlotte; sisters Mary Beth Musto of Webster, NY, Donna Jeanne Meisenzahl of Rochester; stepson Adrian Smigiel and wife Alicia, as well as many many friends.   A Gathering of family and friends we be at Carolina Funeral Service & Cremation Center on Saturday March 12 from 3-4:00PM, and a Celebration of life service to follow.  The Celebration of life service is will be available Live at <a href="https://my.gather.app/remember/daniel-lee-starks">https://my.gather.app/remember/daniel-lee-starks</a> Charlotte, North Carolina

May 20, 1948 - February 18, 2022

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Deborah

March 17, 2022

I took Dan's classes decades ago and he was such a nice man. We both worked out at the Y early mornings and he always had a friendly smile and infectious energy. He was a good man and made this world a better place. My condolences to his family; I am very sorry for yo... Continue Reading

Heather R Starks

March 16, 2022

Miss and love you forever Dad ~ your Scoots

Georgie Bramley

March 12, 2022

We have fond memories of many dinners and card games with Dan and Patty when they lived in Rochester. They were our first friends. Dan was an avid photographer with a quick wit and a good sense of humor. He helped us in a variety of ways as a young couple. We are sorry f... Continue Reading

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Heather R Starks

March 16, 2022

Libby Grier

March 11, 2022

Dan is one of the kindest person. He was part of WYTV7 crime prevention team sharing safety tips to the public. Whenever we called on Dan to be a guest and share he was already on it to bring information around the holiday from personal safety to travel and home safety. ... Continue Reading

Galen Massey

March 5, 2022

I just found out that my dear friend, Dan, passed away. I do not have the words to express my feelings of loss and grief. Dan was my friend and trainer. Both my son, Brandon, and I learned from Dan and greatly respected him and looked up to him. He was such a good man an... Continue Reading

Coretta Wilson

March 4, 2022

I recall working with Dan at WCNC. I still remember many safety tips he shared that made me aware of my surroundings. RIP Dan.

Rick Yarborough

February 24, 2022

I’m just so so sad to hear about the passing of one of the sweetest and biggest spirits I’ve ever encountered. Thanks so much for your love and friendship Dan! I’m blessed to have had some of your magic rub off on me. All my love & prayers to your family and beautiful Co... Continue Reading

Bob Lattanzi

February 23, 2022

A candle was posted for Mr. Daniel Lee Starks.

Jennie Kirkley

February 23, 2022

I am so sorry to hear of your loss Ms. Connie. Dan was an enlightened and astute individual that will be missed and appreciated for many cadences to come. "Don't Be A Victim!" My sincere condolences to you and yours during this time of much needed self care and reflectio... Continue Reading

Rachael McDuffee

February 21, 2022

I am so sorry for you loss. He was such a great man. WiI thought and spoke of him often with my customers.

A candle was posted for Mr. Daniel Lee Starks.

Mr. Daniel Lee Starks

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