Harry E. Starkey, 91, of Hartly, Delaware passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 4, 2017 at Westminster Village. He was a longtime resident of Forest Grove Village in Hartly, Delaware.

Harry was born on February 14, 1926 in Jersey City, New Jersey. He was baptized on July 4th 1926 at the Methodist/Episcopal of Marydel Church in Maryland. He was confirmed on June 4th, 1972 at St. Paul’s in Chestertown, Maryland. After an early death of his mother Marie, on June 11, 1926, Harry was raised by his grandparents, Charles and Gretje Saatman.

Harry joined the Marydel Fire Company on February 14, 1944 and was an active member for many years. He was the oldest member until his passing. He was very dedicated to the fire service.

Harry was drafted in the United States Army on November 9, 1950 and served in the Korean War. He proudly served the United States of America and believed in what America stands for. He was very active in his pursuit for veteran rights and was not afraid to provide information and voice opinions to officials to support fellow veterans.

Harry was an active member in many organizations including the Dover Elks, the La Societe Des 40 Hommes ET & Chevauk 40/8, American Legion, Korean War Veterans Association, Disabled American Veterans Commanders, and a life member of the V.F.W. Post 3238.

Harry retired from the State of Delaware Department of Transportation.

Harry was very aware of the political issues. He wrote numerous editorials to the Delaware State News and Delaware Online. Harry felt it was very important to provide opinions for important political and veteran issues.

Harry is preceded in death by his parents, Earle S. Starkey and Marie L. Saatman Starkey, his sisters Gladys Starkey, Margaret Sylvester and Edna Starkey, his nephew Wallace Starkey, and cousin Raymond Saatman. He is survived by his nephews Clifton and Gordon Sylvester, niece Grace Starkey and cousins, Robert and Ronald Saatman and their families.

Harry was a very special person. He was an avid story teller, sharing stories about growing up in Marydel, painting, and his time in the service. Harry enjoyed talking with others on the phone and had a list of friends and family he called regularly. Harry was loved by family and friends and will truly be missed by his family and many friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Paul’s Parish, 7579 Sandy Bottom Rd., Chestertown, Md. 21620. And Marydel Fire Co., 110 Fire House Lane, Marydel,De. 19964

Funeral will be on Oct 12. 2017, at Trader Funeral Home, 12 Lotus St., Dover Del. Viewing 11:00 to 1:00 PM, Funeral at 1:00 PM

Interment will be at Templeville Cemetery, Templeville Md. following service. Bereavement to follow at Marydel Fire House.