Robert William Wayne Starck Sr.

Robert William Wayne Starck Sr., 94, Cadott, passed away peacefully, Sunday, May 3, 2026, under the care of hospice.

Robert was born March 16, 1932, on the family farm, in the Town of Goetz, to William and Lillian (Schaller) Starck.

He graduated from Cadott High School in 1950, and entered the United States Marine Corps, in December of 1951.

Serving with the 1st Marine Division, 3rd Battalion, Robert spent much of his time in Korea, on the front lines. During one mission, behind enemy lines, in which only 14 of 60 Marines survived, he and a fellow Marine were the last to fight their way out of an enemy death trap.

After hiding for hours in a narrow foxhole, the two made a daring escape at dawn, near the East Berlin area, of Pangi-dong, on the Korean front. Robert was injured during the escape and was later awarded the Purple Heart, the Korean Service Medal, with three stars, the National Defense Service Medal, the United Nations Service Medal and additional commendations.

PFC Starck was discharged from active duty in December 1953, and continued his service in the Marine Corps Reserve until December 1959. In later years, he was honored to participate in the Freedom Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., May 4, 2024.

Following his military service, Robert moved to Racine, where he worked as a heavy equipment operator.

Then, in 1977, he returned to Cadott, to take over his mother’s birthplace family farm, while continuing his work as a heavy equipment operator, with Utility Enterprises Limited (UEL). He was a proud member of Operating Engineers Local 139, for 69 years.

Robert married Shirley (Kohls) Starck, June 7, 1958. She first spotted his handsome photo in a local newspaper, featuring his war story and they later met at a dance, at Rainbow Gardens. Together, they shared 67 years of marriage, and raised four children in Cadott.

They were longtime members of St. John’s Lutheran Church.

Robert will be remembered for his love of operating an excavator, his sense of humor and his remarkable ability to recall names, dates and events throughout his life.

He also found great joy in making maple syrup, a tradition that reflected his deep connection to the land.

Robert was known for his strong work ethic and his well-loved sweet tooth – especially for O& H Danish kringles. In retirement, he jokingly appointed himself “mayor” of his country road and could often be seen keeping an eye on things, from his four-wheeler.

Above all, he was deeply proud of his family, showing it often, through his jokes and storytelling.

He is survived by his beloved wife – Shirley; his children – Robert Jr. (Janet), Richard (Jenny), Susan (Kim) Vrana and Sheryl (Dennis) Van Gruensven; his grandchildren – Erin (Scott) Liebelt, Jenna Starck (Ward Dobbs), Ricki Starck, Brittany (Jordan) Allan, Kelsey Vrana, Ryder (Mallory) Starck, Cameron (Lindsey) Vrana, McKinsey (Cole) Eron and Brooklyn Van Gruensven; and his greatgrandchildren – Gabbi, Griffin, Thea, Juniper, Josie, Sterling and Finnegan.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers – Alvin (Alice) Starck, Lloyd (Arlene) Starck, Herman Starck, Reuben (Catherine) Starck and Dale (Pam) Starck; his sister – Joyce (Bob) Seichter; and his grandson – Shaun Robert Starck.

Services are at 1 p.m., Friday, May 8, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Cadott, with the Rev. Robert Hopkins officiating. Visitation is at St. John’s, two hours prior to the service, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Interment will follow at the Countryside Union Cemetery, in the Town of Goetz, with military honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be directed to St. John’s Lutheran Church in Cadott, or the American Heart Association.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to St. Croix Hospice, and Clark County Rehabilitation & Living Center, for their compassionate care.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.leiserfuneralhome. com. Leiser Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Cadott, is assisting the family.