Daniel J. Starkey January 11, 1953 - August 14, 2021

January 11, 1953 ~ August 14, 2021

 We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Daniel Joseph Starkey, born 11 January 1953 and died on 14 August 2021 in Merced, California with his wife and youngest daughter by his side.

Mr. Starkey is survived by his second wife Margaret Denise Heldstab Wilson Starkey, of Hilmar, California; his three children Mr. Kevin Joseph Starkey (Melissa) of Denair, CA, Mrs. Jennifer Jennette Starkey-Calabrese (Jason) of Wallingford, CT, Mrs. Carrie Ruth Starkey Aganza (Robert) of Turlock, CA, and stepson Joshua Wayne Wilson (Natalie) of Turlock, CA.

He leaves behind 10 wonderful grandchildren: Derek Starkey, Aidan Pelletier, Kaylee Ford, Landon Torres, Emily Wilson, Aubrey Starkey, Sawyer Wilson, Brynli Starkey, Finlee Wilson, Madison Calabrese.

He is also survived by his three loving younger brothers: Mr. Steven Starkey (Deborah) of Turlock, CA; Mr. David Starkey (Cindy) of Ceres, CA and Mr. Edwin “Deacon” Starkey (Cheri) of Atwater, CA, along with several nieces and nephews.

Daniel is preceded in death by his first wife, mother of his eldest children, Mrs. Rosalie Reynolds Starkey (May 30, 1956- April 6, 2020) and his parents Mr. Joseph Ralph Starkey of Denair, CA, Mrs. Elsie Ruth Patterson Starkey of Denair, CA, as well as his stepfather Mr. Willys Lee Starkey of Denair, CA.

Daniel, or Danny as his family knew him, was born and raised in Turlock, California by his mother, Elsie and Stepfather Willys. He was an exemplary big brother and protector to his three younger brothers who enjoyed learning mechanics and woodworking skills from him. Danny was employed by Banquet Foods, Con Agra, as a welder at Varco Pruden and Carnation Foods. He loved his family, working on restoring old vehicles, woodworking and was happiest watching his brothers, sons, and grandsons on the football field. He loved all manner of sports and was an avid San Francisco Giants fan. He raised his family in Hilmar, California and was never missing from the bleachers for a game. He will be deeply missed, but his family is comforted knowing he can finally meet his dad who passed before he was born.

Memorial service will be held at Allen Mortuary on Thursday, August 26, 2021 at 4:00p.m.