Leona M. Starnes, 89, of the Christian Park Village in Escanaba (formerly of Iron Mountain), passed away Thursday evening, April 30, 2009 at the St. Francis Hospital in Escanaba.

Leona was born January 7, 1920 in Iron Mountain, MI the daughter of Edward and Ida (Sanborg) Branback. Leona was united in marriage to Arthur Starnes in 1941 and they made their home in Iron Mountain where they raised their 4 children.

Leona enjoyed spending time with her family and attending family gatherings. She was Lutheran by Faith.

Survivors include:

2 sons: Gale (Jean) Starnes of Iron Mountain; Brian (Shirley) Starnes of Iron Mountain

2 daughters: Kay Pepin of Gladstone; Doreen Lauscher of Gladstone

2 sisters: Ann Sholander of Escanaba; Ellen Rhode of Manitowoc, WI

15 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren and 5 great great grandchildren

Numerous nieces and nephews

In addition to her parents, Leona was preceded in death by her husband Arthur in 1981, 1 brother, Bernard Branback, 3 sisters, Millie Bonnetti, Beatrice Cootware and Edith Bushey.

According to Leona’s wishes, private graveside services will be held at Whispering Pines Cemetery in Ralph, MI.