1934-2025
On September 19, at age 91, John died at home from the effects of multiple organ failure. Son of the late George Starkey and Constance Clarke.
He is survived by his loving wife Linda Jacobs Starkey, his source of joy, sons Andy and Adam (Elisa), precious granddaughter Leah, his much loved brother Peter and sister Eileen, and fond nieces and nephews. Predeceased by siblings Paul, Joan, Bernard, Monica, Maude, Jim and Billy.
Early life was centered in NDG. John liked school because of the sports: football, baseball, volleyball and basketball. He loved summer weeks at Scout Camp Tamaracouta. John was painting in his youth, earning an NDG Community Council Prize in 1950. His career in commercial art began as a representative for art studios and advertising agencies followed by freelance cartoon work for corporation publications. His work was featured in the EXPO’67 Man and His World cartoon exhibition. His cartoon strip, Danielle, was published in the Montreal Sunday Express. Later, as Graphic Artist for CEGEP John Abbott College, John created theatre posters, student event materials, pamphlets and internal communication resources. He was a loyal JAC football fan.
In 1987 John left JAC and opened his watercolour Studio in Pointe Claire Village where he painted local scenes and client commissions. Certificates of Excellence were awarded for two submissions to the Societe canadienne d’aquarelle salons. He enjoyed Saturday pub times with fellow merchants.
John retired his brushes and business at age 74.
John was a soccer coach and a fan of soccer and rugby, and a huge supporter of all Montreal sports teams, including the Canadiens, Alouettes and Impact. His great gifts were his welcoming manner, love of a party and joy of time with family and friends.
Cremation has taken place. A brief visitation from 12:30 to 1 p.m. followed by a celebration of life from 1 to 2 p.m. and a reception from 2 to 4 p.m. on
Thursday, September 25, 2025, and will take place at:. Belvedere funeral complex 22025 Trans-Canada Hwy, Senneville, Quebec H9X 0B2
