David Eugene Starks
June 1, 1947 - September 20, 2020
Sadness overwhelms me as I write to bid farewell to this dear man. Born and raised in Sandy, Dave was proud of his early years there and of being a Jordan High Beetdigger. He was a U.S. Marine who felt the betrayal that followed his service in Viet Nam but was quick with a “Sempre Fi”. He later marched through town as a war protester.
Dave’s daughter, Jo Starks, and granddaughter Onnie (Annika Oblezov) have been the lights of his life. A finer dad neither of them could have had as our small family gave us untold joy. Being an only child, Dave found great pleasure in spending time with Nancy's Gunderson clan.
A voracious reader, Dave enjoyed studying history, especially the Civil War. His music was The Beatles, his politics were with Democrats. We traveled far and wide but he said Norway made him feel most at home.
Dave’s metal work was exhibited in several art shows and along Salt Lake City streets, some ending up in cities around the West. The “Steel Guy” to many, he was the one to be with on a deserted island. He could do nearly anything and would give it a try to help you if he hadn’t already figured it out. We remodeled our old home for years as it became our hobby and passion. It is filled inside and out with art and sculptures that we always enjoyed sharing. This is a place where every inch has been touched by his work and reflects his skills and artistic talents. People often stop on the street to marvel at the twirling propellers of his airplane as the welded people guard the yard. He was happiest when busy and became a constant supporter to me as we worked together on projects.
Dave and I shared 50 years of back and forth love and kibitzing…but there was always a kiss and “good luck” as we ended each day. We’re hoping to host a gathering in the spring when we can all raise a toast to this wonderful guy who has impacted so many. “If you don’t vote, you can’t complain.”
Good bye, sweet Dave.
In Loving Memory
I AM SO SORRY OF HEAR OF HIS PASSING, HS WAS A GREAT AND GENTLE MAN.
Dear Nancy, Jo and Onnie: I had been contacted and learned of Dave's passing, but reading the beautiful tribute of his obituary brought a flood of sweet memories. David and I were "best friends" in the old Sandy neighborhood for years. Many of those years, we were the "only" kids our age in the neighborhood, but Dave's uncle Ross and my brother Grant were fast friends, and we tagged along any time we could. Playing army, digging underground huts, building things out of cardboard boxes, hanging out in the "hood," and working together at Del's AG during high school drew us closer still. We were in Vietnam at the same time--he a brave Marine, I chose the less frightening Air Force, but we kept in touch over that dreadful year. His creative talents bloomed early in life and my family and I have been benefactors of his creative work. There was truly nothing he couldn't make or repair. We were born three weeks apart and always shared our June birthdays. I was a nearly daily visitor to his home in our youth and his dear mother always made me welcome and accommodated our nearly every crazy whim. We also shared a political alliance and a disdain for the "war" we both donated useless time toward. Farewell, dear friend, until we meet again. Fond memories linger in the heart and over the sands of time. Nancy, Jo and Onnie, I hold you dear to my heart and mourn with you at the passing of this quiet giant.
Nancy, I offer my deepest condolences to you and your family. I remember back when you had your wedding shower and the fun wedding. And I especially remember the appliance store in Sandy. I managed to mess up the old wringer washer we used and my mom was glad when I told how sorry I was. Her comment was "now I can get a real washer". And down to the store they went. Dad actually thought she was buying another wringer and she said oh no, "we are getting a real washer". Over the years in school I remember many good times and am having a difficult time saying with fondest feelings I much he actually meant to my life's story. Old Sandy was a wonderful place in which to grow and have good friends. Thinking good thoughts of him and sending deep love to you. Phyllis Simonich
Jo and Nancy-I am so sorry for the loss of Dave. I hope you can find some peace wandering amongst the great pieces of art he created. I sincerely hope he and Jason immediately connect on the other side-then the master and the apprentice can create together again. Let me know if you need anything.
Dearest Nancy, Jo and Onnie: Dave's obituary is so beautiful and captures his life's essence. I've added two photos to this "Photos" webpage. How lucky am I to have a Dave and Nancy lamp and glass where Dave contributed the fasteners. Dave Starks was truly one of a kind! All love and strength.
We are so sorry to hear of the passing of Dave. Dale will always treasure the years he worked with Dave. I will always remember your Halloween Party, what a blast. It's been years since we have seen you but our hearts will always have the fondest memories of Dave and his artwork and kindness. Best wishes to you and your family. Much love, Dale and Robyn Nelson
In Loving Memory
