Gene Starke

Herbert Eugene “Gene” Starke of Higginsville passed away on Monday, March 3, 2025, at the age of 89. A beloved husband, father, grandpa, and friend, Gene touched the lives of many with his humor, kindness, and unwavering love for his family. Gene was born on August 27, 1935, to Herbert William and Clara Wilhelmina (Block) Starke. Gene was a life-long resident of Higginsville, where he met the love of his life, Rosa Lee (Trigg) Starke. They were married on June 10, 1957, and built a joyful family together, raising three incredibly loved children: Lisa, Jennifer, and David. Gene had a successful career in carpentry, serving as foreman and superintendent on various landmark buildings in the Kansas City area, including the Truman Sports Complex, the Bartle Hall Expansion, and the American Royal. He was a proud member of the Carpenter’s Union. Gene was a self-taught musician who could play songs by ear on the guitar and piano. After retirement, he enjoyed traveling the States with Rosa Lee and would spend many hours in his woodshop as a skilled craftsman. Gene shared his skills in woodworking and construction by home remodeling and creating heirloom pieces for his loved ones. His quick wit, big heart, and sense of humor was present in every room and relationship he had. Gene didn’t know a stranger and was forever a jokester. If you knew Gene, you were no doubt a recipient of an endearing nickname. His humor and boundless love will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. Gene leaves behind a family who loved him deeply, including his wife of 67 years, Rosa Lee; his children Lisa (George) Zimmerschied of Independence, MO, Jennifer (David) Greiwe of Millstadt, IL, David (Carla) Starke of Higginsville, MO; eight grandchildren, Erin Emison, Lindsey Haussmann, Derek Zimmerschied, Kristin Curcuru, Justin Zimmerschied, Drew Greiwe, Allison Starke, and Carson Starke; and fifteen great-grandchildren who adoringly called him “Pops”. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Loraine Barber Carroll. His memory will live on in many spirited stories, the projects he completed, and the love and laughter that filled every room he entered. The family will receive friends from 1:00 - 2:30 PM on Saturday, March 8, 2025 at Salem United Church of Christ. A funeral service will follow at 2:30 PM with burial in the Higginsville City Cemetery. Casket bearers: Rob Curcuru, Chris Emison, Drew Greiwe, Ben Haussmann, Carson Starke, Carson Upschulte, Derek Zimmerschied, Justin Zimmerschied. Memorials may be made out to the Salem United Church of Christ.

Gene Starke

August 27, 1935 - March 3, 2025