Larry Bruce Starkebaum was born June 29, 1953, in Haxtun to Clark and Laverne Starkebaum. He died and was called home on March 4, 2022, at the age of 68. He passed away at Melissa Memorial Hospital in Holyoke, surrounded by his family.

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

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

Visitation will be held Friday, March 11, 4-6 p.m. at New Hope Church in Haxtun.

The funeral service will be held Saturday, March 12, at 2 p.m. at New Hope Church. Interment will take place at Haxtun Cemetery.

Baucke Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.