Republic MI- Lillian I. Starkey, age 86, lifelong Republic resident passed away on Friday, February 8, 2019. Lillian was born in Republic, Michigan on April 14, 1932, a daughter of the late Gladys (Mukari) and Camille Venn. She was a graduate of the Republic High School, Class of 1950.  She married George D. Starkey later that year and together they raised their family in Republic.  Lillian worked side by side with her husband running the family farm for decades. She also was a wonderful baker, seamstress, and loved to grow flowers.

Lillian was preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, George (Buddy), daughters; Barbara and Bonnie, daughter-in-law; Kelly Starkey and grandson Jimmy Pitcher. Her siblings, Bob Venn, Paul Venn, Rosemary Venn, Lois Ringuette and Bernie Usitalo went ahead to prepare the way for her.

She is survived by a son, Roger Starkey of Republic, MI two daughters, Ellen Pitcher of TX, and Debbie Swinea, of Arlington, TX. Ten grandchildren Missy Barker, Ashley Smith, Kyle Smith, Harlan Smith, Sarah Smith; Heidi Leos, Tammy Reynolds, Tim Reynolds, Lilly Gorman and Travis Starkey. Ten great- grandchildren along with multiple nieces and nephews.

Lillian was a resident at the Marquette County Medical Care Facility in Ishpeming since April of 2018. We want to thank the clinical teams on the 600 and 300 wing for the care and compassion. We are eternally grateful.

"Don't grieve for me, for now I'm free I'm following the path God laid for me. I took his hand when I heard him call I turned my back and left it all. I could not stay another day to laugh, to love, to work or play. Tasks undone must stay that way. I found that peace at close of day. If my parting has left a void then fill it with remembered joy. A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss, ah yes these things I too will miss. Be not burdened with the times of sorrow I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow. My life's been full, I've savored much, good friends, good times and a loved one's touch. Perhaps my time seemed too brief, don't lengthen it now with undue grief. Lift up you hearts and share with me God wanted me now: He set me free. "

Lillian attended the First Baptist Church in Witch Lake.   A celebration of her life will take place at 11:00 AM EST Saturday May 18, 2019 at the First Baptist Church of Witch Lake with Pastor Kevin Brownfield officiating.

Lillian's obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.