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Doris Starn Obituary
Doris Betty Starn, aged 85, died peacefully in her sleep on February 28, 2010 in her Aptos home. Born on August 17, 1924 to Danish born parents, Katrina and Emil Marcher, Doris was nicknamed "Nixie" by her father. She was raised on a on ranch near Waterford, California, with her brothers Vernon "Bum" and Clarence "Bob" Marcher.
While in elementary school, Doris moved to Hughson, California, where she met her husband Donald L. Starn. They attended Hughson High School and graduated together in 1942. Doris and Don wed in 1942 and were married for 56 years. They had five children; Steven Starn, Mark Starn, Gary Starn, Michael Starn, and Kristi Starn. While Don was stationed overseas during WWII, Doris served on the homefront, raising four boys under the age of four.
In 1964 the family moved to Scotts Valley, California, and have lived in the Santa Cruz area since that time. Doris held a variety of careers, including waitressing, Census Taker for the US Census bureau, childcare provider and was a long time employee for Whitings Foods at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
Doris loved spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grand children. She was an excellent cook, and enjoyed making traditional Danish foods for her family. Doris was a striking beauty, who loved animals and nature. She enjoyed living by the ocean and the beautiful Santa Cruz coast. Doris had keen sense of humor and a sharp wit.
Doris lost her sons, Michael, Gary and Mark and her husband, Don, to diabetes. Doris is survived by her son Steven Starn Roz Starn of Modesto, California, her daughter, Kristi Starn John Dunn of La Selva Beach, California, and daughter-in-laws Joy Starn of Capitola, California and Linda Starn of Dana Point, California. Doris is survived by ten grandchildren and six great-grandchildren all of California, as well as her extended family in Modesto, California.
Services will be held at Holy Eucharist Church, 527 Corralitos Rd., Corralito, California on Friday, March 5, 2010 at 10:30 am. Reception will follow at church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in her name to the American Diabetes Association. Santa Cruz Memorial-Mission Chapel is in charge of arrangements.
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Memories and Condolences
for Doris Starn
6 Entries
Christopher and Joan Carey
March 7, 2010
We send our condolences to all the family. She was a wonderful lady...
Janet (Wemmer) Tornello
March 7, 2010
My sincerest sympathy to Steven and Kristi and all of Doris' loved ones. I remember 'Nixie'. She was one of my father's cousins. My father was Elmo Wemmer. My grandmother Clara and Emil were brother and sister. We had a summer house in Ben Lomond, nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains. When Nixie and her family moved to the area we were given opportunities to visit. She was a lot of fun to be around. She had unforgettable sky-blue eyes and an astounding charm, projecting lighthearted humor and a warm sense of welcome. I know she will be missed and always remembered. My prayers of comfort go out to the family.
chris wemmer
March 5, 2010
My heartfelt condolences to the family. I am a cousin of Kristi and Steve, the grandson of Caroline (Clara) Marcher Wemmer, who was Emil's sister. I spoke with your mom a few years ago seeking information about the Marcher family history. Those Marchers were quite a bunch. I will try to get a copy of the obit to Roy Marcher -- I expect my mother has his address. I am sure you have many fond memories of your mom. I know she was fine woman and loving mother and grandmother. God bless.
Sheila Desmond
March 3, 2010
Doris was an amazing woman; she was witty, insightful, positive, and had many wonderful experiences to draw her stories from. My heart goes out to Kristi and Steve, and all the extended family. May God give you comfort through this difficult time. She will be greatly missed by me and my husband.
Pat Desmond
March 3, 2010
My wife and I would like to extend our sincere condolences to Steve and Kristi Starn and their extended families on the passing of their mother, Doris Starn. I spent many years living next door to the Starn's and Doris was a beautiful and interesting woman with a big heart. Her family always came first. She and my Mother remained best friends for over 60 years.
Rick Johnson
March 3, 2010
I liked the times I was able be with Aunt Doris and enjoyed reading about her life. I will miss seeing her at the Boardwalk too.
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