Robert "Bob" Starzl

Robert Dale Starzl, beloved husband, father, grandfather, passed away peacefully on September 8, 2023, at the age of 75 surrounded by his loving family during his final moments. 

Born on March 27, 1948, in Huron, SD, Bob was a devoted family man who dedicated his life to the well-being and happiness of those he held dear. He is survived by his loving wife, Alice (Calmus), with whom he shared 53 years of cherished companionship and steadfast love. 

Bob was a devoted father, leaving behind a legacy of love through his sons and their families: Robert (Lea) and their children Antonia (Samuel) Kaliher, Andrew, and Ella; Alan (Cari) and their children Reid and Tessa; Joseph (Amanda) and their children Gunner and Kaia; James (Amanda) and their children Cate, Charley, and Ella, Britten, Chloe, and Asher Selness. Additionally, he was a proud and supportive sibling to Calvin (Lynn), Kenneth, Randall (Debra), Wendy (Dale) Currier, and Albert. His love and influence will be forever cherished by his family, who continue to hold him close in their hearts.  

He leaves behind a family who will forever treasure his memory. Bob loved spending time with all of his grandkids. Most evenings during the school year you would find him going to activities or events that his grandkids were involved in. It could be anything from dance, sports, and Grandparents Day when they were tiny to sporting events, school activities, and recognition programs in junior high and high school. Bob would spend hours driving his grandkids that were in Perham to and from school and always wished he could assist more with those who lived further away. For his adult children he was always there with a helping hand and was someone that you could count on. Bob never appeared inconvenienced or rushed and truly enjoyed being able to help others.

Bob graduated from Carthage High School in 1967 before attending Southern State College in Springfield, SD, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Education. He proudly served in the National Guard from 1970 to 1978. 

In 1973, Bob and Alice moved from Yankton, SD to Edgerton, MN where Bob was a dedicated industrial arts teacher for 33 years, shaping the minds and talents of generations of students. His classroom was a place of inspiration, where young minds were nurtured, and creativity flourished. His patience, guidance, and unwavering support inspired countless students to pursue their own woodworking and technical dreams and life goals.

Bob was not afraid of new ventures. While they lived in Edgerton, Bob owned and operated a corn shelling business, raised hogs, and started Starzl Woodworking.

Bob was known for his motivation and a spirit that always sought to be busy. Retirement in 2008 for him simply meant shifting his focus from the classroom to the workshop and garden, where he spent countless hours tending to his crops, nurturing them from seed to harvest. He treasured the relationships he formed with his Starzl Woodworking business and customer satisfaction warmed his heart. Drawing from his life experiences and background, Bob found great satisfaction in assisting people and building connections while working at Mark's Fleet Supply.

Many beautiful pieces of furniture graced the homes of Bob’s children, grandchildren, family, and friends. His creations were more than mere objects; they were expressions of his soul, intricately woven into each piece he lovingly crafted. He believed that a life well-lived was one filled with purpose. Even in his later years, he continued to take on new projects and occupy his time sharing his talents and passions. His unyielding work ethic and zest for life were truly infectious, leaving a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Bob enjoyed spending time outdoors, particularly when surrounded by his loved ones. His trips to the Boundary Waters with his sons and their families held a special place in his heart. Gathered around campfires and sharing moments at Golden Eagle with friends and family always brought a warm and joyful expression to his face.

The void we feel is immeasurable, but his legacy lives on in the enduring creations that bear his mark, the countless students he influenced, and the hearts he touched with his kindness. His warmth, kindness, and unwavering support will be deeply missed by all who knew him. 

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Wencl and Evelyn (Heller) Starzl and his in-laws, William and Irene (Feldhaus) Calmus.

Visitation will be 4:00-8:00 p.m. with a Rosary at 7:15 and Parish Prayers at 7:30 on Friday, September 15, 2023, at Schoeneberger Funeral & Cremation Service in Perham. Visitation will resume from 10:00-11:00 a.m. followed by the Funeral Mass at 11:00 on Saturday, September 16 at St. Henry's Catholic Church in Perham. Committal with Military Honors will follow the Mass at the church cemetery.

Schoeneberger Funeral & Cremation Service, Perham, MN (218) 346-5175 www.schoenebergerfh.com