Darwin M. Starks

Darwin M. Starks, 73, of Stockbridge, passed away Wednesday, November 11, 2015 at Atrium Post Acute Care in Chilton after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born June 20, 1942 in Waunakee, son of the late Marvin & Marion (Jellings) Starks. He was a graduate of DeForest High School, Class of 1960.



Darwin proudly served his country during the Vietnam War in 68’ and 69’ as a member of the Army 826 Ordinance Company of Madison. Following his discharge, Darwin really found a true passion for horse pulling and cattle hauling. He and his soul mate, Karen Barnes, started the “ Cow Ambulance” in the Fox Valley, where they applied their skills and love for animals for over 30 years. Darwin was a member of the Wisconsin Horse Pullers Association for fifty years and in the little free time that he found he enjoyed fishing and playing a few rounds of cards, such as Euchre and Sheepshead.



Survivors include his daughter, Melissa of California; grandson, Buckley of California; two brothers, David and Harold Starks; many nieces and nephews; and his best friend and buddy, Dean (Laurie) Chamberlain of Kaukauna.



In addition to his parents, Darwin was preceded in death by his life partner, Karen Barnes; two brothers, Gerald and Donald Starks; two sisters, Evonne and Gloria; and a brother-in-law, Ron “Fuzzy” Thurston.



A Celebration of Life will be from 1:00pm – 4:00pm on Saturday, November 21, 2015 at the VFW (349 W. Walker Way) in Sun Prairie. In accordance with Darwin’s wishes, a private family graveside service with military honors will be held at a later date.



A memorial fund has been established in the name of Darwin M. Starks.



Darwin’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the caregivers at Atrium Post Acute Care in Chilton and Calumet County Hospice, especially Karen Doerr for the care and compassion shown to him. – See more at: http://www.wietingfuneralhome.com/obituaries/darwin-m-starks/#sthash.m4tcXOQD.dpuf