Kenneth G. Starlin

Kenneth was born on August 25, 1932 in Massena Iowa, to Emmitt and Myrtle (Fletcher) Starlin, who precede him in death.

Ken served proudly in the US Army, 5th Armored Division. Following his honorable discharge from military service he attended Auto Body School in Kansas City MO.

Ken met Deanna at a penny arcade in Kansas City and they were wed on September 29, 1957. They moved to Colorado in 1966 to raise their family. The family flourished in the mountains. Ken taught his children about responsible hunting and land stewardship. Camping and hunting were their “vacations” except for a family visit to Iowa once a year. Every child learned about cars and how NOT to treat them. The family were friends with many amazing people who enriched their lives.

Ken's kids talk about how everyone knew Dad. The kids could never get away with anything without someone telling Ken.

Ken co-owned Valley Auto Body for many years. The family moved to Rawlins, Wyoming for a year before moving back to Colorado. Ken then started his own business named Ken's Body Shop. He never really retired. Cars were a big part of his life. He always had a project going on. His love of cars was shared by his family.

Ken was passionate about car restoration. He was a master metal fabricator and classic car restorer. He also enjoyed woodworking and created beautiful artwork for all members of his family to enjoy. Ken was an avid fisherman and big game hunter who had some beautiful mounts to proudly display in their lovely log home in Masonville that Ken had built from the ground up.

While growing up, the kids learned how to camp, forage and sleep under the stars. Life was never dull with Dad. Later, the entire family was involved in building a cabin in Cherokee park that was enjoyed for years.

Although Ken will be missed, his family takes great comfort in knowing that he has gone home to be with Deanna. He leaves behind a beautiful legacy. Those left to cherish his memory are his loving 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, Emmalee Hollinden, Jenniffer Coons, James Starlin, Bonnie Lynn Clemons, Kenny Starlin, Blake Sanders, Micah Massey, Lawson Massey, Denver Massey, Naomi Bishop and numerous great grandchildren.

Also surviving Kenneth are his sisters Carol Gillmore and Karla Starlin-Hall.

Preceding him in death are his loving wife, Deanna Starlin; loving daughter, Cathy Hyndman; grandson, Nolan Hockensmith; brothers, Clyde and Harold, and his sister Roberta.

Per his wishes, private services will be held at a later date and internment will take place at Resthaven Memory Gardens.

Memorial donations in Kenneth's memory may be directed to Larimer Humane Society.

Condolences and memories are welcome at resthavencolorado.com