Ernest J.

Starkel

Ernest Jay Starkel

Ernest Jay Starkel, 88, of Columbia, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on October 29, 2026.

Born in Hartford, Connecticut, to Ernest J. & Matilda Starkel on December 14, 1937, and raised in Coventry, Ernest lived a life characterized by service, craftsmanship, and devotion to family and community. After moving to Columbia in the 1960s, he became a familiar and respected presence throughout the town he proudly called home.

Ernest served as a Sergeant in the Connecticut Army National Guard from 1955 to 1962 and dedicated himself to public service throughout his life. He was a Lieutenant with the Coventry Volunteer Fire Association and remained a passionate supporter of the fire service for decades. Known affectionately as the unofficial "Clerk of the Works" for the Columbia Fire Department, he generously shared his knowledge, practical skills, and unwavering support whenever needed.

His commitment to Columbia extended beyond the fire service. Ernest served for 18 years on the Columbia Planning and Zoning Commission, where he helped guide the town's responsible growth while working to preserve the character of the community he loved.

A master carpenter and craftsman, Ernest took great pride in creating beautiful furniture, restoring Farmall tractors, and tackling projects both large and small. His skill, attention to detail, and strong work ethic were evident in everything he built. He also treasured the companionship of his Labrador Retrievers and looked forward to time spent in Vermont, where he enjoyed the scenery, the slower pace of life, and making lasting memories with family and friends.

Ernest was predeceased by his beloved wife, Phyllis Gibson Starkel.

He is survived by his daughter, Patricia Harbec and her husband Michael; his sons, Peter J. Starkel and his wife Paula, and Michael Starkel and his wife Wendy; his grandchildren, Scott Dunstan and wife Amy, Shane Dunstan and wife Rebecca, Brittany Sholes and husband Donald, Michaela Hackney and husband David, Zachary Harbec and wife Melissa, Molly and Emma Starkel, Marissa Shytko and husband Erald, and Caitlin Gergler; and his great-grandchildren, Hazel and Maverick Sholes, Jackson Hackney, Levi Harbec, Madison, Ryan, and Owen Dunstan, Finley and Ronan Strube.

More than anything, Ernest will be remembered for his quiet strength, generosity, integrity, and willingness to help others. Whether he was serving his community, working in his woodshop, or enjoying time with family, he approached life with humility, purpose, and an enduring sense of responsibility. The many lives he touched stand as a lasting tribute to the man he was.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Ernest's life on Saturday, December 12, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Columbia Fire Department, 167 Route 66, Columbia, CT 06237.

The family welcomes all who knew and loved Ernest to join them in sharing memories and honoring a life well lived.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Ernest's memory to:

Hebron Firefighters Benevolent Association P.O. Box 911 Hebron, CT 06248

Ernest leaves behind a legacy of service, craftsmanship, friendship, and family devotion. His example will continue to inspire those who knew him, and he will be profoundly missed by all whose lives were enriched by his presence.

"Those we love don't go away; they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed, and forever dear."