Deanna L. Starlin

Deanna was born on September 23, 1940 to John and Dorothy (Smith) Higginbotham who preceed her in death, along with her daughter Cathy Hyndman.

Deanna met her husband Ken at a penny arcade in Kansas City after Ken served his time in the army. They were wed in 1957, moving to Colorado in 1966 to raise their family. The family enjoyed the Colorado hunting and camping opportunities and Deanna always had her children tagging along behind. They made witches brew, rode in the camper looking out the window, watching the wildlife and 4 wheeling. The family were friends with many amazing people who enriched their life.

Deanna's children talk, laugh and cry about their mom's life. Mom was an amazing cook, loved to garden and even chased the snakes out of the zucchini. Mom and dad bowled every Friday night. Deanna was a huge part of 4-H alongside her kids. She taught us how to show compassion for animals, while we were riding the animals behind her back. (Mom knew) Mom worked many years at the Macy's soda fountain then went on to be a co-owner of the West side Dunkin Donuts. As life went on, almost every child played cards with Mom and Dad at 4 pm.

Remaining to cherish Deanna’s memory are her loving husband of over 68 years, Kenneth; children: Vicki Lucero (Efren) of Laporte CO, Shireen Hockensmith (Dan) of Lingle WY, Michelle Gilmore (Rocky) of Severance CO, Brian Starlin (Emma) of Seattle WA, and Julie Bishop (Jim) of Linden IA; grandchildren: Jason Gaona, Henry Gaona, Antonia Lecciso, Sharlene Haas, Tabitha Pierson, Nolan Hockensmith, Emmalee Hollinden, Jenniffer Coons, James Starlin, BonnieLynn Clemons, Kenny Starlin, Blake Sanders, Micah Massey, Lawson Massey, Denver Massey, Naomi Bishop and numerous great grandchildren.

Also surviving Deanna is her sister Cheryl Barrier, brother David Higginbotham, and sister-in-laws Carol Gillmore and Karla Starlin-Hall.

Our mother has been a diamond for 85 years.

Per her wishes, services for Deanna were held privately. Interment took place at Resthaven Memory Gardens.

Her service can be viewed here: https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/c25104823130506

Memorial donations in Deanna’s memory may be directed to Larimer Humane Society. Condolences and memories are welcome at resthavencolorado.com