Tommie Lee Starkenberg, age 78 of Buchanan, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 24, 2025. Born on August 28, 1946, he was the son of the late Howard Benjamin Starkenberg and the late June Rothrock Starkenberg.  In addition to his parents, Tommie is preceded in death by his son, Forrest Starkenberg.

Born in Fargo, North Dakota, Tommie spent his formative years in the Panama Canal Zone.  A  very talented guitar player, Tommie and his band were the opening act for Paul Anka when he came to Panama.  A decorated United States Army veteran, he served from 1963 to 1966 rising to the rank of Sergeant.  Tommie spent almost a year in Vietnam was awarded the Rifle Sharpshooter Badge, the National Defense Serve Medal, and the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal.  Tommie's creativity was also seen in his exceptional pencil portraits.  He will be deeply missed by all who loved him.

Left to cherish his memories are his wife of 44 years, Diana Gale Starkenberg of Buchanan; his brother and sister-in-law, Bernard and Eleanor Starkenberg of Boston; and his step-daughters, Rhonda married to Ronn Quinn of Villa Rica and Kelly Ann Dunn of Bowdon.  Also surviving are a grandchild, Anna Carroll; two great-grandchildren, Tallon Tilley and Isabel Tilley; and nieces, Karla Starkenberg and Amy Starkenberg..

In keeping with Tommie's wishes he will be cremated.

Hutcheson's Memorial Chapel & Crematory of Buchanan is honored to serve the cremation needs of the Starkenberg family.