Robert "Bob" Earl Starbuck, 81, of Clinton, Iowa passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, March 21, 2015. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 26, at Lemke Funeral Homes - South Chapel. A visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 25, at Lemke Funeral Homes - South Chapel (2610 Manufacturing Drive). Burial will take place at Rock Island National Cemetery immediately following the funeral service. Lemke Funeral Homes is assisting the family with arrangements.
Robert was born July 20, 1933 in Clinton, Iowa, the son of Forrest and Audrey (Lewis) Starbuck. He attended Clinton Schools graduating in 1951. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1952 and was honorably discharged in April 1956 achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant serving in the Korean War. Robert's service in the Air Force included attending A & E Aircraft Maintenance School then went on to Chanute Air Force Base specializing in propeller maintenance. He then transferred to Travis Air Force Base in 1953 and finally to Yokota Air Force Base in Japan.
Robert married Sally Hansen in 1953, they later divorced. They had four sons - David (Marcia) Starbuck of Fulton, Il., Steven Starbuck, James Starbuck and Thomas (Alison) Starbuck all of Clinton, Iowa. Robert was self-employed most of his life, he owned and operated a GMC dealership and most recently owned Starbuck Trucks. In 2005 Robert was united in marriage to Jennie Schmid.
Robert enjoyed traveling and was best known for his love of flying. He began flying in Wichita Falls, Texas and continued at the Clinton Municipal Airport where he served as General Manager for one year and was also a founding member of the Clinton Aero Club. He was also a long time member of the Clinton AMVETS, the Kaaba Shriners as well as a 50 year 32 Degree Mason.
Survivors include his wife Jennie, his four sons, 2 step daughters, 10 grandchildren, 3 great grand children, one brother - Jerry Starbuck of Fulton, Il., with many friends.
Preceding Robert in death were his parents.
Memorials made will be directed to the wishes of the family.

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