Jerry Lew Starkweather
November 17, 2008
Jerry Starkweather passed away Monday morning, November 17, 2008 at home. Memorial services will be held 10:30 am Thursday at New Life Lutheran Church in Norwalk. A lite luncheon will follow the service and all are welcome. A memorial visitation will be held Wednesday from 5-7pm at Hamilton’s Southtown Funeral Home.
Jerry was born on April 25, 1928 to Clarence and Audrey Starkweather of Greene, IA. He was the youngest of 3. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; brother Clarence Jr.; sister Betty Jean Murphy and an infant son and daughter.
Jerry grew up in Greene, IA and completed college at Upper Iowa University in Fayette. Shortly after graduating he was called to serve in the US Army during the Korean War Conflict. After serving he attended graduate school at the University of Iowa receiving a Masters Degree.
He married Frances Ann Shultz of Greene on June 11, 1954 and began a long 39 year career with the state of Iowa retiring in 1993 as the Director of Vocational Rehabilitation.
Jerry and Fran moved to Norwalk in 1958. Jerry volunteered his time for many things in Norwalk including the Library Board, the Planning and Zoning Commission, City Council and for 12 years as Mayor from 1994 completing his third term in later 2005. Jerry was especially proud to support the Norwalk Police and Fire and Rescue Department.
Jerry was a member of the American Legion, Masonic Lodge, a great Hawkeye fan and a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend.
Survivors include his wife Fran; sons Jim (Cathy) of Tomah, WI, Paul (Laura) of Norwalk; grandchildren Ashley, Jennifer and Jared Starkweather, Stefanie (John) Creason, Daniel Starkweather, Sarah O’Neal and great grandson Johnathon Creason.
Jerry’s family suggests memorials to the Norwalk Fire Association.
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Julie Chelesvig
11/19/2008
My deepest sympathy to you, Fran and your family. Jerry will always occupy a special place in my heart. To me he will always be the tall, gentle giant with the broad smile who guided vocational rehabilitation services. When I began my empoloyment with VR at age 19, I had only intended to stay 2 years to get some experience. Well, that was 39 years and many job titles ago and I know that Jerry played a big part in my decision to stay and grow with VR. Thank you for sharing him with us.
Polly Glascock
11/19/2008
I met Mr. Starkweather during my campaign for county recorder in 2006 on several occasions.
He spoke at the ceremony for the new fire station and you could feel the pride and dedication he had for that organization and to the city of Norwalk. His spirit and sense of humor was outstanding. Norwalk has lost a great leader.
I feel fortunate to have met him and knew at the time, I wouldn't forget this special, witty, giving person. My sympathies to all of you at this difficult time.
Patrick Keenan
11/19/2008
To the Starkweather Family and my friends -- Mrs. Fran Starkweather and Jim, Cathy, Ashley, Jennifer, Jared and Paul...I am so sorry for your loss. I'll always remember Mr. Starkweather as a warm and caring person with a great sense of humor and someone who always made me feel welcomed as if I were also part of his extended family. For that I will always be grateful and will miss him.
You all will be in my thoughts and prayers...
Pat Keenan
Julie Belstene
11/18/2008
I would like to extend my sympathy to Jerry's family. When I first began working for Voc Rehab, Jerry was the administrator. He was great to get to know and friendly with all who he met. As a secretary, it felt good to have an adminstrator of the agency to sit down and talk with you like a person. Jerry was that person. I will always remember Jerry for that, plus what made our work relationship better was that we were shocked to learn that we knew some of the same individuals from Norwalk. He will never be forgotten for what he has done for individuals with disabilities. God Bless.
Ferrol Senne Miller
11/18/2008
Dear Francie, Doug, Dave, and all the family,
Love and prayers are sent your way from all of us in Texas: Mil, Ferrol and Dean, Joanne and Terry and all of our children. We are with you in spirit even though we cannot be there in person. May God bless you all through this difficult and sad time.
Jim Hoffman & Family
11/18/2008
May God Bless you Jerry. It was always a pleasure sharing quality time together. Thanks for all the wonderful memories.
Love You,
Jim Hoffman & Family