James "Jim" R. Starkey

James R. Starkey (Jim), age 65 of Menomonie WI, passed away Thursday morning, April 24, 2025, at home with his wife and two sons by his side.

Jim was born on August 31, 1959 in St. Paul, MN. He was the fourth of six children born to Jerry and Ramona (Kasel) Starkey. His early years were spent in White Bear Lake, MN. In 1968 his family moved to a farm north of Elmwood, WI, where he attended school and graduated from Elmwood High School in 1977. Jim loved playing football and running track.

Following graduation, Jim worked at the Wayne Lumber Company, and soon after began his 42 year career with 3M in Menomonie working nights. His dedication, hard work, and abilities to learn new skills led to many promotions. Seeking further advancements, Jim made the difficult decision to leave the comfort and familiarity of Menomonie to work in St. Paul until his retirement in March 2022.

Jim met Lynn Husby in 1986. They were united in marriage November 5, 1988. Shortly after, they purchased their current home south of Menomonie and were blessed with their two sons. Jim was a devoted husband and father. He loved going "Up North" to the cabin, riding side by side with family and friends, shooting pool, playing cards, working on his in-law’s farm for spring field work and drying corn in the fall.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Lynn, and his two sons, Jacob of Menomonie, and Mitchell (Taylor Nelson) of Rice Lake, WI. He is further survived by one brother, Mike (Monica) Starkey, River Falls, WI, sisters, Lou Ann (Dan) Horgan, Wisconsin Rapids, WI; Mary Jo (Jay) Larsen, Shakopee, MN; Barbara Jean (Mark) Elliott, West St. Paul MN; and Donna Lynn Starkey (Mark Smeltzer) Mahtomedi, MN, father-in-law and mother-in-law Mick and Ann Husby, Menomonie, WI and brother-in-law Ken Husby (Joni Frederick) Elk Mound, WI; sister-in-law Cari (Tim) Brahmer, Menomonie, WI as well as several nieces and nephews that will continue to honor his memory.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 1st from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at Olson’s Funeral Home in Menomonie, WI. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, May 2nd at Peace Lutheran Church in Menomonie, WI with Pastor August Hohl officiating. There will be a visitation from 10:00-11:00 a.m. prior to the service. Lunch to follow the service. Burial will take place at a later date.

To share a memory, please visit obituaries at www.olsonfuneral.com