Frank C. Starbuck's Obituary
Frank C. Starbuck, age 85, of St. Clair, passed away October 14, 2017 at home surrounded by his loving family.
He was born March 8, 1932 in Grawn, Michigan to the late Francis (Frank) and Bessie Starbuck, where they lived in what was previously a Grange Hall on a rail spur that was for potato distribution. Thus Frank began life with humble beginnings as the son of a potato broker.
He and his father often traveled between Traverse City and Manistee before there were roads, pushing their Model T through creeks and over rocks, fondly known to them as “kibitzing about”. From these adventures, Frank developed a great appreciation for nature, national parks and forests.
Frank attended University of Michigan, earning a degree in Engineering. He would thumb rides back and forth between Ann Arbor and Grand Traverse County for holidays and summers. To help put himself through college, Frank worked for the Traverse City Canning Company.
After college, he married Janet Ann Cook of Traverse City. He was soon drafted into the U.S. Army during the Korean War and stationed at Ft. Lee, Virginia. He brought his wife along and they lived in an Airstream trailer where their first son Mark was born.
He was a bright, principled business man and leader. In an early position with Huron Portland Cement, his engineering background led him to participate in developing and perfecting the first self-unloading freighter, and his name is on a patent for one of the improvements. He later worked at the Diamond Crystal Salt Co. in St. Clair as Manager of Marine Transportation, General Manager of Distribution, and retiring as V.P. of Transportation.
Frank was a very spiritual man and devout Christian. His deep religious faith led him and Jan to the Crossroads Community Church in East China. He was also a physical man and took great care and charge of his health right up to his dying day. He had a great love of fly fishing and the soul of a poet.
Frank was a warrior and remained the intelligent, spiritual compass for his boys, setting the example for love and patience right up to the end. His gentleness and compassion made him a father to all.
He left this earth peacefully, surrounded by his loving family and community.
He was preceded in death by his son; Scott Allen Starbuck, grandson; Nicholas Starbuck, and brother; Harry Starbuck.
He is survived by his wife; Janet Starbuck, his sons; Mark Edward Starbuck, Timothy Earl, Tim’s wife Susan, and son Matthew Moore Starbuck. He is also survived by 8 grandchildren, Leslie Allen, Holly Ann, Jessica Rae, Karly Ann, Eden Nicole, Justin Matthew, Samantha Marie, and Madelynn Joy; 5 great-grandchildren, and sister; Helen Friedlander, along with his nieces, nephews, and friends.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. Cremation arrangements are made by L.C. Friederichs and Son Funeral Home, St. Clair. To leave the family a message of comfort please visit: www.lcfanson.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Frank?
What’s a lesson you learned from Frank?
Share a story where Frank's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Frank you’ll never forget.
How did Frank make you smile?