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Heather Starcher Obituary
Starcher
MANCHESTER On Sept. 29, 2002, Heather (Gardner) Starcher, our 26-year-old newly wedded an gel, wife of Jason Starcher and daughter of Robert and Rebecca Gardner, became our Heavenly angel as she left us to be with our Lord.
On April 20, 2002, two families were united as Heather Gardner married Jason Starcher. These two families became one long before Heather's wedding day, though, as "Team Heather" was formed in early 2001 upon her diagnosis of breast cancer. Heather may not be with us any longer, but she won her battle over cancer with each of her smiles that lit a room, in each of her heartfelt laughs, through every per son she touched with her strength, and in the grace, faith, and fortitude with which she met her enormous challenges. Heather, a 1994 graduate of Manchester High School and a 1999 graduate of the University of Akron, made it a purpose in life to lighten the hearts of others with her smile and her warm touch. As a member of St. Francis De Sales Parish, Heather drew on her faith and prayer with the onset of each new obstacle. It was Heather's family and friends that helped her to be able to stay positive, but it was undoubtedly Heather's belief in God that gave her the inner strength to touch so many. Heather added her own spe cial influence to the Gardner Insur ance Agency, where she worked with her father, Robert, for over six years. It was her career goal to succeed her father and assume the ownership of the agency. Heather greeted each new face with a welcoming air and took quality time to speak with clients and profession als alike. Heather participated in the National Race for the Cure in Washington. D.C., for the past two years, and offered herself to speak around northeast Ohio on the im portance of early detection and treatment for breast cancer. As a big sister, in the Big Brothers & Big Sisters Program for over six years, Heather was excited to help improve the quality of life for one less fortunate. It was a goal of Heath er's to make her little sister, Jolene, feel wanted and loved and Heather was dedicated to that effort. Heath er also felt extremely fortunate to work with children with disabilities as a volunteer counselor for Camp Wonderlung. Heather enjoyed the escape she provided these very special children.
Heather leaves behind, to go on in her spirit, her dedicated and beloved husband of five months, Jason Starcher; parents, Robert and Rebecca Gardner; brother, Shawn Gardner; sister, Renee Gardner; grandparents, Harvey and Flora Bridgeman; parents-in-law, Roland and Sandra Starcher; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Scott and Dee Green, and neph ews, Logan and Nicholas; brother- in-law and sister-in-law, Sean and Jennifer Starcher, and nieces, Morgan and Miranda; her indomitable circle of best friends, Jennifer Soles, Julie Carpenter, Tracy Young, Angela Rea and Raeal Moore; and many many relatives and friends. Along with countless others who prayed for her, laughed with her, cried over her and were touched by her larger than life spirit, the lives of these 22 relatives will forever be changed by having witnessed the courage in Heather's battle.
All but Heather's spirit was taken from her, and so it is in this that we endeavor to embrace the beauty, joy, and love of life and family. We will forever love and miss you, Heather, our Heavenly angel, until we see each other again.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Francis DeSales Catho lic Church, 4019 Manchester Rd., on Thursday, Oct. 3, 2002, at 10 a.m. Interment at St. Peter & Paul Cemetery in Doylestown, Ohio. Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesday at the Schermesser Funeral Home, 600 E. Tur keyfoot Lake Rd. (Route 619). In lieu of flowers, it is asked that you make a donation to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation (www.komen.com or 800-462-9273) as a tribute to Heather Starcher. Heather would be honored to know her fight for life continues on through efforts to end breast cancer by advancing re search, education, screening, and treatment. Thank you all.
(Schermesser Green Chapel,
330-724-9351.)
Please sign the guestbook at www.ohio.com/obituaries
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Heather Starcher
Darlene Owen
October 18, 2002
Heather was truly a person to admire. Her courage, strength, and faith is an inspiration to all of us. It was a privilege to know, love and share in many memorable times with Heather and her family. She is an angel in heaven and I know that she is looking down on all of us now and praying for us right now. I will never forget Heather and the love that she shared with everyone. I love you Heather and you will always be in our hearts. Love, Darlene & Dave Owen
Laura Meagher
October 16, 2002
What a joy and inspiration it was to be with the Gardner and Starcher families at the Race for the Cure these past two years! The spirit of "Team Heather" will live on . . . Heather was truly joyful, remarkable and unforgettable.
Greg Dooley
October 11, 2002
Heather touched so many lives in so many ways. She had an enormous impact on my life and the person I have become. She taught me many things including the importance of God, family and friends, and having a positive outlook. I will never forget her smile, her laughter, or the way she lit up a room with her presence.
Jason, Bob, Becky, Shawn, and Renee, and all of Heather's friends and family- my heart goes out to each and every one of you. Heather was so lucky to have such a wonderful, loving group of people in her life. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Although she is no longer here, Heather's spirit will live on forever in our hearts and in our memories. She is definitely an angel in Heaven now, watching after us all.
Heather, I love you and miss you dearly. I will never forget you.
Christy (Dooley) Burke
October 7, 2002
As much as I miss Heather, I feel so blessed and lucky to have known her. Heather was so loved by my family. She always had a smile on her face which lit up the room. Heather has given me strength and continues to do so as she looks out for all of us from above. Throughout her treatment, she continued to be the most positive person I know. She is an inspiration to everyone who knew her and to countless others who never met her.
We love you Heather and will never forget you!!!
Christy and Brandon Burke
Rusti Dodson
October 7, 2002
Dear Gardner and Starcher families, please accept my condolences. Heather was Lindsay's C-team cheerleading coach...so we have known her only at a distance, but the love of family that has been witnessed by Manchester in light of Heather's illness has left quite an impact on our family.. "Jay-Stone" I have known you since you were a scrawny little boy..what a man you grew up to be and I realize that is in part do to the love of Heather. You both shared a wonderful gift. And to her "girlfriends"...well...everyone needs friends like you guys !!!!
In Sympathy,
Rusti Dodson
Jamie Belardo
October 7, 2002
Few people go out of their way to touch people's lives and to energize people the way that Heather has. Quite possibly the most genuinely positive and spirited person I have ever known. She really knew what it meant to thoughtfully change people's days. Knowing her for only a short time in college was knowing her long enough to never forget her, and I never will.
I send my thoughts and prayers.
Kathy (Flanagan) Tamlyn
October 4, 2002
Dear Gardner and Starcher families
Our hearts and prayers are with all of you at such a difficult time. Heather has truly been an inspiration and adored by so many. Our deepest sympathy goes out to all of you.
Todd, Kathy, Noah and Logan Tamlyn
Jenny Dennis
October 4, 2002
Praying God's strength and comfort will be yours in this terribly difficult time. I knew Heather only through Jennifer, Shawn's wife, but was always so impressed with her life and her wonderful attitude. We prayed much for her and will continue to do so for each of you.
Theresa Falletta
October 4, 2002
To the Gardner and Starcher families,to all of Heather's friends... I did not hear of our loss until today,my heart is heavy for not having been able to be with you these past days. Please know that although many of you do not know me, you have been in my thoughts and prayers through all of Heather's courageous fight. You all should be so proud of your daughter,your sister,your wife,your friend.
My "Manchester family" is a large and beautiful one...and Heather has been a part of that for many years. To you girls...the group of you have such an amazing bond of friendship- something I have always looked up to- something all of you have been kind enough to share with me through the years. I can honestly say that every single one of my memories of Heather is filled with her smile and her laugh. So during this time, remember how much fun Heather made life for all of you- how blessed you are to have had her- and how comforting it is to know that you have gained one AMAZING guardian angel! May all of us be blessed with Heather's strength and courage ... especially now. Heather...I love you and I miss you and your courage is something I will draw from when I am weak in my own life...you have shown all of us what it means to TRULY live. I will be walking even stronger and longer for you on the 13th! My prayers,my thoughts, my love...
Denise Gartner
October 3, 2002
Dear Gardner and Starcher families, I'm a friend and co-worker of Pam Andrellas. Ever since Heathers original diagnosis of breast cancer Pam kept me updated on Heathers progress and with that I kept her in my her in my daily thoughts and prayers. Pam often spoke of Heathers beauty, inside and out and of your incredible love and strength as a family. I'm sorry that I never met your wife and daughter personally,I wish I had, but strongly feel that God has a beautiful angel in heaven with him. My thought and prayers are with each of you for continued strength. Sincerly, Denise Gartner
Jim,Denise,Amy,Jim Jr ,Joey,Maggie Waring
October 3, 2002
Our thoughts and prayers are with you .
Kimberly (Goodman) French
October 3, 2002
I remember Heather, when she was small. Looking up to Renee, so proud to be her little sister. There are so many reasons why.
May your families find comfort and peace in Heather's strength and inspiring courage. May she rest with the Father.
Anonymous
October 3, 2002
Do not ponder on goodbye, instead let it be known... that death is just an illusion caused by the earth spinning 'round... Heather's limitless faith and spirit will forever be embodied in all whose path she graced...
Donna (Stefanov) Wojcik
October 3, 2002
Mr. & Mrs. Gardner, Shawn, Renee, & Jason,
I wish for you to find peace and comfort during this most difficult time. Heather was an an angel here on earth and now she is truly home. I will never forget the love that just radiated from her. She was so sweet and kind. Sierra absolutely adored her as did everyone who was blessed to know her. Mr. & Mrs. Gardner thank you for raising such a beautiful person. Please know that we will never forget her. May God's comfort and peace be with you.
Love Donna
Juanita Tonathy
October 3, 2002
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at your time of loss.. Heather was a beautiful, intelligent girl and Im sure her memory will live on through all that have met her!
Heather will be greatly missed!
Dave and Juanita Tonathy and family..
Jim,Betty & Dan Vincent
October 3, 2002
Starcher and Gardners,
Please know that your loss is Heaven's gain and how bright it must be today with Heather's presence. We will always remember Heather and know that she touched many lives in her short time here. May you find comfort knowing that many share in your sorrow and lift you with prayers for strength.
God Bless You All-
Jim, Betty & Dan Vincent
Susan Shaw
October 3, 2002
Dear Family members; I didn't know Heather well but really enjoyed talking with her when she attended our monthly meetings. She was very bright, her smile made you feel good, and she knew her stuff. The insurance industry has truly lost a great one.
Sue Shaw
Insurance Women of Akron
Saunia Bracey
October 3, 2002
Even though I never personally met Heather, she touched my life in a wonderful way. Heather was the big sister to my niece, Jolene Barber. I heard many wonderful things about her from Jolene and my mother. She was a mentor, friend and inspiration to my niece. Heather truly made a difference in Jolene's life. My deepest sympathy to the Gardner and Starcher families. God Bless.
Linda Sansonetti (Sans)
October 2, 2002
Bob, Becky and family,
I was so sorry to hear about the loss of your beloved daughter. It has been so long since I have seen or talked to either one of you and when I saw the newspaper on Tuesday,I was shocked. I believe the last time I saw you was when you stopped into the Prudential office over on Waterloo Road. I still remember the good times that we had when you still worked at Prudential Bob. Your children were still very small and you were blessed to have Heather for 26 years. Too short a time, but a true gift,one that I am sure you have a lot of wonderful memories to help you through life ahead without her.
Please know that you and your whole family are in my prayers and will continue to be. Take care of yourself and find strength in God and your family at this difficult time. Your friend, Linda Sans
Natalie (Menches) Roarty
October 2, 2002
Dear Gardner and Starcher Families,
My thoughts and prayers will always remain in my heart for you and for Heather. Heather will always be your Angel and she will always be with you and loving you in spirit.
Kelly Riel
October 2, 2002
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Amy Tarasovic
October 2, 2002
I will never forget those sassy butterfly clips and that beautiful smile. Shawn and all of the Gardner/Starcher family, may you find comfort in the memory of Heather's incredible strength, grace, and spirit.
With peace and sadness, Amy Tarasovic
Greg and Erica Walker
October 2, 2002
Gardner and Starcher Family
Accept our deepest sympathies, Our prayers are with you.
Pam Andrella
October 2, 2002
Heather ~ How we will all miss you!
You were such an inspiration to all of us that witnessed your strength as you and your family were suffering. You were able to touch so very many lives, some of which you weren't even aware. You accomplished so much in your short life, and were so very happy, always a smile!
To Jason, her adoring husband, both of your families are so fortunate to have you, and you to have them. It's wonderful to have witnessed such an outpouring of love and support.
Shawn and Renee........Heather couldn't have ask for a better brother or sister. You guys were always there for her, regardless of distance, such great support and comfort through all of this. Although I do seem to remember a time or two that she got a bit riled.....but that's what baby sisters do, right? What would she have done without you two?
Parents and parents-in-law losing children, it's just unfathomable. Now that your job of comforting and protecting Heather is finished, it's her turn to look out for you from above. She loved you all so dearly..........and she never hesitated to let it show!
May Peace be with you all,
Love, Pam
Deborah Osburn
October 2, 2002
My Dearest Becky and Bob,
All our love from Tucson.
The Warings
Wendy Oyler
October 2, 2002
My heartfelt condolences to the Gardner and Starcher families during this difficult time. Renee - I took dance with you a million years ago at Judy Cain's and I just wanted tell you how sorry I am for the loss of your sister, but how glad I am that you got to have her in your life for 26 wonderful years. May your fond memories be of comfort to you and your family.
Karen McCray
October 2, 2002
Dear Bob, Becky, Shawn and Renee,
Condolences are such a small thing to offer, yet I remember the power of comfort and strength in each little world when we lost my dad. My thoughts are with you all, and yet I feel a quiet joy for Heather, because like my dad, she's free from all the struggles here.Though you're not just across the street anymore, you're still just that close in my heart and prayers. I'm thinking of you.
Love,
Karen
Holly Scott
October 2, 2002
As I am sure you know, Heather's faith, strength and courage has been an inspiration to me and so many others! I am sure Heaven is rejoicing to have her home!
May her memory be eternal,
Larry Gwinn Family
October 2, 2002
Gardner/Starcher family:
What are heavy?
Sea, Sand and Sorrow.
What are brief?
Today and Tomorrow.
What are frail?
Spring, blossoms and youth.
What are real?
The ocean and truth.
In time, we hope these words may offer comfort, Our deepest sorrow in your loss, we will miss that lovely smile!
Maureen & Steve Carpenter
October 2, 2002
Gardner/Starcher families,
Please accept our deepest condolences. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Heather was a joy to be with. She was a ray of sunshine. We are so glad that we had the opportunity to be a part of her life.
Angel Sitts
October 2, 2002
My thoughts and prayers are with Heathers family and her friends. May the Lord be with all of you, and help you through these hard times. Heather is now safe, healed, and happy, where we all long to be, in the glory of the Lord!!
Tom and Peggy Hurst
October 1, 2002
Becky, Bob, Jason, Shawn and Renee:
Please accept out deepest sympathy.
Our thoughts and prayers have been with you all the way. That wonderful smile will light up the heavens. Please cherish all the fond memories you have of good times with Heather...I know we will.
Love,
Tom and Peggy Hurst
Colleen (Flanagan) Valentini
October 1, 2002
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Garnder, Shawn, and Renee,
My first memory of Heather was teaching her CCD (4th grade) at St. Francis. She is truly an angel! It is evident how much love is in the Gardner Family. Shawn and Renee just adorded her. May the many memorable memories of Heather's life comfort you at this time. She has touched so many lifes. Our prayers are with you and the Starcher family.
Love,
George, Colleen, Christina, Amanda, and Isabella
Doug Bycura
October 1, 2002
Bob, Becky, Shawn, and Renee
I am so sorry for the loss your enduring with Heather's passing. Let the love you have always shown one another and for life be what guides you through these difficult times.
Heidi Rouser-Grant
October 1, 2002
Heather truly was a shinning star. Each and every person who knew her was very blessed and still blessed to have her shine down upon them from heaven. I remember all the good times with Heather in high school-cheerleading,hanging out. She was a special person. My thoughts and prayers are with you Jason, the Gardner family, and the Starcher family. God Bless You All!
Thoughts & Prayers,
Heidi Rouser-Grant
Sherrie Lewis
October 1, 2002
My heartfelt sympathy to the family and friends of Heather. I worked with one of her close friends whom I know will miss her terribly. I know your loss is great and sometimes there are no words...she touched many lives, including some who never got the chance to meet her...like mine.
Dale Akins
October 1, 2002
Dear Gardner/Starcher Family
My mother, Martha Stalcup and I never knew Heather.We used to get an update on her at church every so often from a neighbor named Rod.We have prayed for your famalies and Heather many times. May God be with you all. Dale and Martha
Brad & Heather (Scott) Porcella
October 1, 2002
It was a blessing to have known Heather. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
David Johnson(Aster Paint)
October 1, 2002
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. I only new Heather as a customer, but she always had a smile and a friendly voice.
Steve, Jennifer, and Breslin Walker
October 1, 2002
Dear Gardner and Starcher families,
Please accept our deepest condolences. It's been years since we've seen Heather, but we will always remember her as a very caring and joyful person. May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you his grace and peace.
Sincerely,
Steve, Jennifer, and Breslin Walker
Jen and Mike Schimmenti
October 1, 2002
Our thoughts and prayers are with The Gardners and The Starchers. We're sure Heather is in heaven, making everyone smile up there, just as she did down here. God Bless.
Brett, Lisa, Rexx, Maxx & Lexxi Peters
October 1, 2002
Uncle Bob, Aunt Becky, Shawn, Renee & Jason,
Heather gave so much of herself to others that she shone like a shining star and always had a smile on her face. May the memories be kept alive as though she would want. Our deepest sympathy! We Love You All!
Pat (Syx) Roland
October 1, 2002
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. I am so very sorry for your loss and pray that God can comfort you in your time of sorrow. Heather was the most beautiful young woman I have ever know. What an inspiration she has been to so many.
Scott Hurst
October 1, 2002
Dear Gardners,
I have said many prayers for Heather. I have also reflected on the great times our families spent together. Your family has always managed to bring a magical joy into our lives that was unique from any other. Heather will be deeply missed by us.
Debbie Harsh
October 1, 2002
My thouughts and prayers are with you.
AMY MADDEN
October 1, 2002
I am so very sorry for your loss. I pray that God, in His infinite wisdom, can comfort you in your time of need.
Tim and Teri Franta
October 1, 2002
Bob: Please accept our deepest sympathy for the lost of your beautiful Heather. The love a Father has for his daughter is the deepest in existence. We pray that your memory of her will comfort you in this time of sorrow.
Melissa (Menches) Clapper
October 1, 2002
My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Heather was such a beautiful person both inside and out!
What an inspiration she is to so many.
Scott & Amy Peters
October 1, 2002
We remember when Heather was about 14 years old, we spent a weekend at Myrtle Beach with Heather, Aunt Becky & Uncle Bob. As our hosts, they showed us all around their annual vacation haven. After a while, Scott discovered that his wallet was missing. We back tracked to everywhere we had been, and searched the van and condo several times to no avail. That night Heather prayed to Saint Anthony, the patron saint of lost articles. The next morning Heather got up, went straight out to the van and pulled out the wallet.
Heather had what I describe as an "inner light." I tell everyone about Heather and how I saw that "inner light" in her long before she was diagnosed. And how she exhibited it during her battle as well.
Much love from Scott & Amy Peters.
Kurtt & Jacque Peters
October 1, 2002
Aunt Becky, Uncle Bob, Renee, Shawn & Jason-
We are very sorry for your loss. We have had Heather in our prayers for months and we will continue to pray for your family and keep Heather forever in our hearts.
Vickie & Joe Gurnish
October 1, 2002
May we add our deepest sympathy and prayers to countless others I'm sure. We will be praying for you all, and sorry we never got to met Heather, but i'm sure we will met her when we get to heaven!!
Matt & Kim Peters
October 1, 2002
a fond memory of Heather is when we went to visit her in the hospital and she looked up and said, "Hello my cousins" and smiled. Everytime that Renee would tell her to smile she would plant this huge smile across her face on command. It was so cute to see her smile like that. She made the best of everything.
We will surely miss you Heather.
With Love,
Matt, Kim, Tysen, Taylor, Tanner & Tucker Peters
P.S. The kids kept asking how you were doing the whole time you were sick!
Shannon Johnson
October 1, 2002
I wish to express my condolences to the family and friends of Heather. I had not seen Heather since high school, but I still remember when we used to play little league softball together. It is comforting to know that she is with God now. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Jeff Pitz
October 1, 2002
Gardner/Starcher families,
You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Even though it has been years since I had last saw Heather she lived her life to the fullest and gave so much to the community in which she had lived. Please again accept my condolences and remain strong.
Arica Andrella
October 1, 2002
Heather~ You are an inspiration to us all, your spirit will forever live on in our hearts. You will forever be missed our angel.
Jay Feldman
October 1, 2002
Ellen and I are sad to hear about your loss. I looked forward to hearing Heather's voice when I call her regarding our policies. She will be missed. Her strength helped Ellen with her fight with cancer.
Becky, Bob and Jason our prayers are with you.
Todd Stock
October 1, 2002
I am sorry for your loss.
Shelly Hawthorne
October 1, 2002
Heather was a true angel in my life and made everyone around her feel special. Through all that she went through she was more concerned about everyone, but herself. She showed more strength than anyone I have ever met. She was like another sister to me and I will truly miss her. I know that she is looking on all of us now and smiling and telling everyone not to be sad because she is in a better place. Heather, I love you and I will miss you more than you can possibly imagine. To Jason, Bob, Becky, Shawn, Renee, the Starcher family and all of Heather's friends - stay strong and know that Heather's spririt will live on in every life that she touched.
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