Charles Edward Starkey

Charles E. Starkey, 85, went to be with his Lord on December 4, 2016. Charles was born in Indianapolis, Indiana, and grew up on a farm in Pike Township, the youngest of eight children. He graduated from Pike High School in 1949.

Charles married Ardelle Moore in 1951 when he was 19 years old and she was 17. Though Charles didn’t recommend that others get married that young, their marriage lasted until his death, a total of 65 years. Charles is survived by Ardelle and their four children: Anne (Wayne) Gordon of Chicago, IL; Doug (Shelly) Starkey of Indianapolis, IN; Jeff (Anna) Starkey of Akron, OH; and Susan Starkey of Indianapolis, IN. Charles is also survived by his sister, Betty Kester of Auburn, FL.
Charles and Ardelle, or Papaw and Mamaw, loved to spend time with their grandchildren. One highlight for each grandchild was a vacation to Disney World with Papaw and Mamaw when they turned 6 years old. Grandchildren surviving Charles are Angela Gordon, Andrew (Stacy) Gordon, Austin Gordon, Paige (Brandon) Andrews, Todd (Leslie) Starkey, Kara Starkey and Kristen Starkey. Charles is also survived by four great grandchildren whom he adored.
Charles was an entrepreneur and owned several small businesses over a 40+ year career. He acquired two patents, one of which he developed and implemented at his most successful company, Keystar Systems. Charles was involved for years in the Pike Township Lions Club, serving a term as President.
Growing up and living in Indiana most of his life, Charles loved all things basketball – high school, IU, Purdue and the Pacers. And even though his eye sight dimmed in his later years, Charles still believed that he could see the play more clearly than the referee! Charles also played a mean game of euchre. He and Ardelle were part of a euchre club for many years and enjoyed playing cards late into the night with their best friends.
Charles loved the local church and was involved in several churches that were part of the Restoration Movement. He served as an elder in Traders Point Christian Church, White River Christian Church, E. 91st St. Christian Church and Anchor Christian Church in Bonita Springs, FL. Charles always looked forward to attending the North American Christian Convention each year where he could connect with friends from all over the country.
A celebration of life service will be held on Friday, December 9 at 11:00 am at the Speedway Flanner and Buchanan, 2950 N. High School Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46224. Visitation will be from 9:30 am until the service at 11:00 am. Online condolences can be left at flannerbuchanan.com. Memorial donations can be made to Lawndale Community Church, 3827 W. Ogden Ave., Chicago, IL 60623.