Obituary of John Starits

John Lynn Starits (62), of Tucson, Arizona passed away on Easter morning April 9, 2023 after a valiant battle with cancer with loved ones by his side. John was born December 17, 1960, in Marshalltown, Iowa to Rose and Leonard Starits, the oldest brother to Jerry, Leonard Jr, and Leland. In 1977 he moved to Casa Grande, Arizona where he met his love and married Diane (Mehringer) on August 25, 1979. They built a life and family together, never giving up on one another despite life’s many obstacles. John was a transmission rebuilder for over 40 years and owned his own transmission shop. He was a talented mechanic who enjoyed tinkering, repairing, and creating with his hands. John was a collector and a fixer of all. He raised many rottweilers and each one has held a special place in his heart as part of the family. John was very compassionate about his beliefs and strong willed. He was a loyal and true friend. Having a soft spot for those in need, John was always helping others, even when gravely ill. John really loved his family. His children and grandchildren brought him much joy and happiness. When John saw his grandkids his eyes twinkled and he would smile from ear to ear before giving them a welcoming hug. There was no doubt he loved each one. He enjoyed telling a funny story, teasing, and had a good sense of humor. He had a hearty laugh that will be sorely missed. John is survived by his wife Diane; children, Heather Smelker (Zach), John (Amanda), Thomas (Erika); and 9 grandchildren, Baylee Smelker (Missoula, Montana), Sawyer and Wyatt Smelker (Kalispell, Montana), Morgan and Kamryn Starits (Tucson, Arizona) and Noah, Makenna, Kayleigh, and Skye Starits (Buckeye, Arizona). He adored them and was present in all of their lives. He is preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, father in law Donald Mehringer, and brother in law Jon Mehringer. John fought hard until his last breath and will be deeply missed by his family and friends. John’s Memorial service, followed by a reception, will be Saturday April 29th at 11:00 a.m. at Bring’s Funeral Home in Tucson on Broadway and Kolb