Final Salute

Edwin Harding Starke Jr., age 78, of Three Lakes died unexpectedly at home on July 19, 2025. He was born April 11, 1947, to Edwin and Agnes Starke Sr. in Racine, WI.

Ed worked as a mechanic since he was 18. He served his country with pride in the U.S. Navy as a Navy Seabee during the Vietnam war from 1966 to 1968. He married the love of his life, Cindy Nerud, November 28, 1970. Together they raised 2 children, Edwin III and Michele. In 1984, the family moved from Peoria, IL to Three Lakes, WI and built their own home.

Ed and Cindy opened Cindy’s Country Café in 1987 and operated it for 34 years. Ed opened and was co-owner of Three Lakes Auto Service. Some of his other contributions to the community include Three Lakes town board supervisor for 14 years, member of Three Lakes police commission, volunteer for Ducks Unlimited for over 40 years, hunters’ safety teacher, and a lifetime member of the NRA. He was most proud of starting and getting approval for the ATV trails in Three Lakes and being highly involved in the startup of the Three Lakes Veterans’ Memorial.

He was a man of few words, but his actions were many.

Ed is preceded in death by his parents: Edwin and Agnes. He is survived by his wife: Cindy; his children: Eddie (Denelle) and Michele; his grandchildren: Mackenzie, Keirsten, and Jasmine; and his great-grandchild: Ja’Mia.

A graveside service will be held at the Three Lakes Cemetery on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at 11am. A celebration of life will follow at 12pm at the Reiter Center in Three Lakes.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Three Lakes Veterans’ Memorial or the Never Forgotten Honor Flight.