Arnold Clyde Starkel

ARNOLD CLYDE STARKEL Arnold Clyde Starkel, passed away peacefully on June 15, 2025, at the age of 98. Arnold was born on August 25, 1926, in Florence, Kansas, to Constantine and Lena (Buehler) Starkel. He was raised in Florence, where he graduated from Florence High School. Arnold was a proud American and honored his country serving in the Merchant Marines from May 1944 to December 1945. On May 23, 1948, he was united in marriage to Virginia Ella Hobson at the Christian Church in Marion, Kansas. Their union was blessed with a lifetime of love, family, and cherished memories. Arnold dedicated over 35 years of service to Skelly/Getty Refinery, retiring in 1986 as a machinist. A man of simple joys, he loved spending his time fishing, going to garage sales with his buddies, and tinkering in the shop. In his younger years, he took pride in gardeningespecially when it came to growing his delicious green beans as well as bowling. He also loved playing cards with friends and at lunchtime at the refinery. Arnold is survived by his devoted wife of 77 years, Virginia; daughter, Vicki Adams; son, Gary Starkel and wife Karma; grandchildren, Michael Roberts and wife Chasity, Angela Starkel, and Kyle Starkel; as well as four great-grandchildren who brought him great joy. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings: Homer Starkel, Mildred George, Leslie Starkel, and Gene Starkel. A memorial service to celebrate Arnold's life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 20, at Carlson Colonial Chapel. Following the service, Arnold's remains will be laid to rest at Hillcrest Cemetery in Florence. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Trinity United Methodist Church or Kansas Wildlife and Parks to support fishing-related initiatives.