Martin Bruce Starkovich

Martin Bruce Starkovich passed away on December 11, 2019 in Clayton NC at the age of 71. He was born on January 2, 1948 in Saint Paul, Minnesota to Martin Joseph and Emerald Tast Starkovich. He was Bruce to some and Marty to others depending on when you met him. He grew up in Babbitt, Minnesota. His mother passed away at a young age after which his father married Ellen Wilson who lovingly filled the role of mother for much of his life. He was a 1966 graduate of Babbitt High School. Following high school he proudly served 4 years in the United States Navy.

He was a machinist by trade and avid outdoor enthusiast in his leisure time. He enjoyed hiking, biking, canoeing and especially running. He completed numerous races including marathons and triathlons and shared his love of running with others through coaching.

Memories of his goodness, determination, humor and love of adventure will be cherished by his daughter Erin Stroup (Zeb) and granddaughters Morgan and Katy Stroup, all of Clayton NC; former wife and forever friend Claudia Starkovich of Lynchburg, VA; mother Ellen Starkovich and sister Lois Wilson Opseth (Steve) of Duluth, MN; sister Diane Wilson (Mark Anderson) of Saint Paul, MN; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Becky Starkovich Charnell and brother Gary Wilson.]