Joseph Alexander Starr

Joe Starr was born on September 15, 1931, to his parents Pauline and Joe Starr. He passed away surrounded by peace and love on July 20, 2024. He was the beloved husband of Charlene Starr who preceded him in death. They raised their six children in Taylor, MI and have resided at Sunrise of Northville for the last five years. Joe was also preceded in death by their daughter, Jolene.

He was the loving patriarch of a large family including five other children, Shirley Matuszewski (Ed), Suzanne Starr, Cathy VanKleeck (Kevin), Joe Starr (Mary) and George Starr (Tammy), 13 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. 

Joe was raised in Detroit, spent years in the Air Force during the Korean Conflict, and retired from Ford Motor Company. Joe and Charlene met and married 70 years ago. Their romance never changed over those 70 years during which they embraced life’s happiness and sorrows as a team. Joe was dedicated to Charlene as they cared for all of their children, working together to build their family.

At Ford, Joe was most proud of his role in building two Presidential limousines, for which he received commendations from Ford Motor Company and the gratitude of the White House. This required him to work closely with the Secret Service, assuring the security of all employees who worked on the projects. He spoke of the intricacies and importance of his work on the limousines long after he retired. 

Throughout his life, Joe loved to tinker. He was constantly improving or creating new machines, fixing his or someone else’s car, and woodworking. He loved to use his hands to create and then to give his creations to others or use them to improve his life. 

The last few years allowed Joe and Charlene to settle into a new routine surrounded by friends and excellent health care workers, at Sunrise. Joe loved calling bingo games and chatting with other Sunrise residents. You might think of him as the mayor of their community. Until last October, Joe and Charlene ate dinner together every night and spent many afternoons sitting outside, reminiscing about their lives and holding hands. For the last five years the staff at Sunrise, including Jewell and many others, cared for Joe, showing him the love and respect he deserved.

A celebration of life for Joe will be held at St. Kenneth Catholic Church in Plymouth on Thursday July 25. Visitation will be at 10 a.m. and Catholic Mass will begin at 11 a.m.

Those who wish to honor the memory of Joe are invited to consider a contribution to Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, New York 10306.

Contribution envelopes will be available at St. Kenneth.