Kenneth "Kenny" Joseph Starits, 83, of Tama County, IA passed away March 19, 2021 at St. Luke's Hospital, Cedar Rapids.

Kenneth was born October 18, 1937 to Edward and Mamie (Behounek) Starits on the family farm in rural Vining. He attended country school until his father passed away, then taking over the family farm. On Oct. 15, 1966 Kenny married Joann Sichra in Missouri. Following marriage, the couple farmed together in rural Tama County until retiring from farming in the 90's, selling the farm and moved to town.  Kenny then began working for the Meskwaki Casino and later for Tama County, mowing throughout the county.

In their youth the couple enjoyed going dancing. Kenny had a love for people and was very social. When there was nothing going on, he would say "let's go" and find people to visit with or just go for a drive.

He was a member of Catholic Order of Forrester's and St. Joseph's Church, Chelsea.

Kenny is survived by his children, Sandy (Stephen) Brewer of Toledo, Jennifer (Ricardo) Mora-Starits of Marshalltown, Kathy (Sarah) Tayloe-Starits of Dubuque and Suzanne Garcia of Cedar Falls; grandchildren, Miranda, Sadie, Jacqueline, Ariella, Emily, Hallie, Dona, Luis and Marco; granddaughter-in-law, Elizabeth Starits; several great-grandchildren and many family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Joann Starits: son, Christopher Starits; grandson, Joseph E. Starits; and sister, Violet Upah.

Mass of Christian Burial is 10:00 a.m. Tuesday March 23, 2021 at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Chelsea with Fr. Dennis Conway and Deacon Joe Behounek officiating.  Burial will take place at St. Joseph's Cemetery, Chelsea.

Visitation is 5-7 p.m. Monday, March 22 ^nd at Hrabak-Neuhaus Funeral Service, Belle Plaine. Memorials may be directed to the family. Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.neuhausfuenralservice.com