In loving memory of Harold E. Starbard III

Obituary

Harold E. Starbard III, age 74, passed away Tuesday, May 14, 2024 in Venice, Florida with his wife, Cindy Starbard, by his side, pictures of his family around him, and many friends reaching out to let him know how much his life meant to them.

Born in Worcester, MA, Harold grew up with his parents, Harry and Claire, and his older sister, Diane. Harold had strong relationships with his Pepe (maternal grandfather) and his Uncle Bob that lasted well into adulthood. He learned young what it took to work hard and build a business.

In his mid 20’s, Harold married Linda Starbard (Bassett) and they gave birth to their only child, a baby girl, Marisa. Harold worked for Eastern Airlines and they lived in Grafton, MA until 1982. They moved to California for a couple of years and then back to Massachusetts, then to Kansas, then Missouri, then to Florida, back to Missouri, back to Florida and finally back to Missouri.

When Eastern Airlines went under, Harold started driving limousines and discovered a talent for service and transportation. After the final move to Missouri, Harold and Linda divorced in 1996.

In Kansas City, after several years of working for others in the transportation industry, Harold established Harold Starbard Transportation, LLC and had a blast providing transportation services for the NFL, MLB, and other major sporting events across the country. He loved sports, especially football and baseball. He loved people and loved being a part of the action.

Harold married Cindy Starbard (Petifurd) and helped to raise her son Jeremy. For almost 30 years, Harold and Cindy built a beautiful life together. Most of that time, they lived in Smithville, MO until their recent relocation to Venice, FL. Harold and Cindy loved to host parties for Harold’s employees, as well as some awesome barbecue’s for their friends and neighbors. They had a lively social life together, and just loved being with people. They were avid Chiefs and Royals fans, and thoroughly enjoyed attending games and the Super Bowl with Harold’s best friend, Lou Accurso.

Harold always loved the beach and good food. He adored his grandchildren: Luke Stam, Lily Stam and Aracely Stam. He cherished his extended family including his Uncle Bob Bird and nephew PJ O’Connell and their families. Harold loved to share a meal with friends and family whether it was at home or at a great restaurant with excellent service.

With his quick wit, Harold had a way of using humor to defuse challenging situations and bring a smile with his words and mannerisms. Maybe not always appropriate, his humor could bring relief and lighten heavy moments. Even in his final days, these lifelong gifts continued to shine through.

Harold’s legacy lives on the hearts and memories of his wife Cindy, daughter and son-in-law Marisa and Aaron Stam, his grandchildren Luke, Lily and Aracely Stam, his Uncle Bob and his nephew PJ O’Connell and their families, many friends and colleagues, and people who shared special moments with him over the years.

In passing, he joins his mom and dad, his grandparents, his sister Diane and his step-son Jeremy, along with other friends and family who left this life too soon. We trust we will see them again having faith that Jesus made a way for all of us through his life, death and resurrection. Through belief alone, we hold firm to the promise Jesus made to the thief who was crucified next to Him. The thief needed only to believe Jesus was the son of God and man, then Jesus promised, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” Luke 23:43. Even in this difficult time, we can find joy because we trust that the struggles of this world are temporary.

So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary but what is unseen is eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:18.

In celebration of Harold’s life, legacy gifts can be made to Selamta Family Project (www.selamtafamilyproject.org) or Worthy & Known Family Project (www.worthyandknownfp.org). Plans for gatherings to celebrate and remember Harold are still in development with more information to come. Thank you for being a part of Harold’s life and legacy!