Maria Starnes

Maria D. Starnes, 91 of Manhattan Kansas passed away early Monday morning April 15, 2013 at Via Christi nursing home in Manhattan, Kansas. Maria was born on October 20, 1921 in Trieste, Italy. She was the daughter of Joseph & Katherina Degrassi. She had one younger sister Selvina Degrassi. Maria was a survivor of the Nazi occupation of Italy during World War II. She was married to Virgil Eugene Starnes in 1955 and moved to America shortly thereafter. After living in several different states during the remainder of Virgil's military career, they settled in North Carolina for several years before moving to Kansas in 1968. Maria and Virgil resided in Manhattan for the remainder of their lives. They remained together until Virgil's death in 1986. Maria enjoyed gardening, yard work, bingo, soap operas, and caring for her grandchildren. Maria is survived by her two sons Carlo and Robert, Carlos' wife Leticia, grand daughter Denise Furr of Concord, NC, grandson Eric Starnes of Manhattan, KS, and great grand children Nicholas and Sarah Furr of Concord, NC. Maria was devout Catholic, remaining faithful unto her death. She will always be loved and we will always miss her. A Graveside Service is schedule for10:30am, Friday, April 19, 2013 at Fort Riley Cemetery with the direction of Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home & Cremation.