Vearl Starchman

(From Simpson Funeral Home)

Vearl Starchman, 90, passed away at 9:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 2, 2020 at The Communities of Wildwood, after succumbing to an illness. Born in 1930, Vearl spent most of his life in Belleville, MO. 

He logged trees in Washington State, served in the Air Force as a mechanic, worked the Hecla Silver Mine in Idaho, and drove freight for Campbell 66 in Joplin, MO until retiring in 1986. In retirement, Vearl stayed busy maintaining a cattle farm and working on vehicles and machinery. 

On May 21, 1950, he married Phyllis Starchman. They were happily married for 56 years. 

Survivors include his children, Sharon Mayo of Joplin, Dean Starchman and wife, Connie, of Webb City, Darrell Starchman and wife, Beth of Carl Junction and Paula Briley and husband, Eddie, of Carl Junction; five grandchildren, Rebecca Rohmiller, Travis Starchman, Shelly Ames, Amanda Madl, Lane Starchman; 13 great grandchildren; 12 great, great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, John & Cora Starchman; wife, Phyllis Starchman; son in law, Eugene Mayo; and twelve siblings. 

Vearl was well regarded by family and many friends in the community. He was a gifted mechanic and cattleman who never hesitated to help others in solving their mechanical or animal troubles. He was deeply committed to caring for his family, especially his late wife Phyllis. He spent many years caring for her at home as her health declined while battling Multiple Sclerosis (MS). 

Graveside services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on November 6, 2020 at Osborne Memorial Cemetery in Joplin, MO., with Reverend Joe Morris officiating. Donations in Vearl’s memory can be submitted to the National MS Society at www.nationalmssociety.org in lieu of flowers. 

Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to Simpson Funeral Home in Webb City. Visit www.simpsonfh.com for online condolences.