Richard Emory Starr, 48

Richard Emory Starr, 48, suddenly went home to be with the Lord on Dec. 27, 2005.

A celebration of his life was held at New Life Chapel in Hesperia, Calif., on Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2006. His burial place will be at Forest Lawn in Glendale.

Richard was born in San Fernando Valley, Calif., on Oct. 13, 1957, to George and Marilyn Starr of Granada Hills. For the past 12 years, he resided in Apple Valley, Calif.

As a child, he enjoyed camping and fishing with his family. As an adult, his passion was serving the Lord, faithfully playing drums with the worship team and his pride and joy were his children. He always wore a smile and was a man of his word.

He was a seasoned seamstress, sewing surfboard leashes for internationally known surfboard companies. Rick also was a member in good standing of Local Builders Union 831 and an eight-year vested employee of GES Expo.

Richard is survived by his loving wife, Shaunn; eight wonderful children, Jason, 24, Ryan, 21, Lindsey, 19, Travis, 17, Ashley, 15, Megan, 14, Mikey, 10, and Sarah, 12 months; and a grandson, Mason, 3 months. He also is survived by a brother and three sisters, Pamela (Pat) Mulligan of Sandpoint, Idaho; David (Luann) Starr of Las Vegas, Nev., Shari Starr of Mojave, Calif., and Stefanie (Mike) Barrett of Littleton, Colo.; and nine nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, his parents and a sister.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association.