Harry Starbuck

Rev. Dr. Harry L. Starbuck made a peaceful and joyous transition to heaven Jan. 18, 2013, surrounded by family. He was 89 years young and is survived by his beloved wife of 29 years , Lollie, brother Frank of Michigan, sister Helen of Florida, son Ed and wife Cindy of Rhode Island, son Jeff of New Jersey, and Lollie's 4 children, Bill, Laurel, Marilyn and Susan. Together they have 13 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren.
Born in Grawn, MI, Harry decided to serve the Lord when he was 12, and was faithful to this calling all his life. As a child, Harry's mother would spin the globe, pointing to different countries, planting a desire in his heart to see as much of the world as possible!
Harry worked his way through Adrian and on to Garrett Seminary, IL., where he met and married Audrey Taber, his first wife. Upon graduation, Harry's first Methodist ministerial job was in Hansen, ID. He also pastored in Pocatella, ID, Hingham, MA, Winthrop, and Augusta, ME.
After moving to CA to serve in Lindsey, Harry got his Dr. of Ministry Degree from Fuller Seminary. The family was transferred to Dinuba where Audrey became ill and passed away in Jan. 1983.
Harry met his present wife, Laurel Lee Soldwisch the following year at a christian camp in the Sierras, they married and soon after served a church in Fremont. After 40 years of service as a pastor, Harry retired. He and Lollie traveled around North America and to many countries in India, Russia and Australia exploring and spreading God's word in a Christian organization, CFO.
While living in Santa Cruz County from 1987-1992, the couple gave "Marriage Enrichment" retreats, then moved to Carlsbad, CA and introduced "Centering Prayer" to So. California. Harry had extensive experience speaking and leading retreats and workshops, with varied emphases such as spiritual growth, prayer and world peace. He also authored two books on his family history. Harry spent his final seven years in Watsonville, enjoying life and family.
Harry will be remembered for his wisdom, sensitive listening, understanding, and counsel. A celebration of life and memorial services will be held on Feb. 9, at 3:00 P.M. at Aptos Community Methodist Church, 2210 Thunderbird Dr., Aptos.
In lieu of flowers, contributions are preferred to Second Harvest Food Bank of Watsonville.