Thomas "Tom" Starr

Thomas "Tom" Starr, age 66 of Centerville, Iowa passed away Monday, December 22, 2014 at Mercy Medical Center in Centerville. Tom was born in Appanoose County on May 11, 1948, the son of Robert and Katherine (Graves) Starr. He graduated from Moulton-Udell High School, class of 1966. Tom was united in marriage to Zelda Hamilton on March 25, 1967 at the Calvary Baptist Church in Centerville, Iowa. He was employed with Union Carbide, Viskase and Curwood Corporation for 48 years. Tom was the longest tenured employee at Curwood. He began his career in the extrusion department. He later worked in the finishing department. Most recently, Tom was employed in shipping for the corporation. Tom enjoyed outdoor activities, especially hunting and fishing. He also had an interest in vintage modeled cars. Most importantly, Tom treasured the time he spent with his grandchildren and family, including his faithful attendance to all of their sporting events. He had a heart of gold and family members describe his character by his willingness to lend a helping hand to others in need. Tom simply "had the biggest smile around town." Tom is survived by his wife of forty seven years, Zelda Starr of Centerville, Iowa; four children, Tammie (Francis) Clupny of Centerville, Iowa, Patricia Hill of Fort Madison, Iowa, Timothy (Shannon) Starr of Centerville, Iowa and Robbie (Shell) Starr of Rio, Illinois; eight grandchildren, Alex Starr, Carli Starr, Kyle Kimm, Ryan Kimm, Elizabeth Starr, Tyler Starr, Jacob Starr and Madison Clupny; and one great grandchild, Ellarose Kimm; nine siblings, Janice Mullenix, Debbie Starr, Vicki Hall, Jack Starr, Jay Starr, Bobby Starr, Mendy Combs, Kerry Starr and Steve Starr; many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and in-laws; a brother, Mike Starr; and a brother-in-law, James Mullenix. Funeral services will be held at 10 AM, Monday, December 29, 2014 at Lange Funeral Home and Crematory in Centerville with Reverend Jerry Weller officiating. Interment will follow in the Sunset View Cemetery, Moulton, Iowa. A visitation will be held on Sunday at Lange Funeral Home and Crematory from 1-8 PM, with the family greeting friends from 5-8 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established to either the Iowa Donor Network or to the family of Tom Starr and may be given to Lange Funeral Home, 1900 S. 18th St., Centerville, Iowa 52544. Condolences may be shared online at www.langefh.com.