Peter Starkey

Peter was born June 26, 1952 in Indiana to Tom Riberdy and (mother), but later was adopted by Jim and Helen Starkey of Humboldt, MI. He and Catherine Starkey were married on March 2, 1973 after having a relationship for several years. They had only two children, Sheri and Jerome. Peter graduated from school in 1967 and attended trade school for carpentry and construction, which is the work he did most of his life. He also worked in the Tilden Mine for a short period of time before working for construction companies. Two of the companies that he worked for years was Gary Niemela, and another was Wayne Premeau, and then eventually he started to do building state inspections for Spurr Township. All of these companies he became a foreman on the job, and was well respected by everyone because he was very knowledgeable of the building codes and laws. Peter also loved fishing, hunting, and even began to watch football with some of his close friends. But most of all, he loved sitting at the beach in Michigamme with his little buddy Evan by his side. They were never apart. Peter always took Evan everywhere he went.

Peter will be missed by his daughter, Sheri Dellis-Riley of Horse Cave, Kentucky, his mother-in-law, Barbara Fishell of Clarinda, Iowa, his brother-in-law, Dennis (Clara) Skytta of Michigamme, Michigan, 3 grandchildren, Madisyn, Jaxson, and Tyson Starkey of Appleton, Wisconsin, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and neighbors.

Peter was preceded in death by his wife, Catherine Starkey, son, Jerome Starkey, brother-in-law, Albert Skytta, his parents, Tom Riberdy and mother, and also Jim and Helen Starkey and his brother, Mike Starkey.

Honoring Peter’s wishes, cremation will take place and services will be held at 2:00 PM on Tuesday October 14, 2025 at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Champion, Michigan with Paul Peterson officiating. Peter’s family will greet relatives and friends from 1:00 PM until the start of his service at 2:00 PM. All that knew Peter are asked to attend to tell stories that they remember about him. This is a day to celebrate his life, as he would’ve wanted us to.

Peter’s obituary may be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.