Paula Starks

Paula Colleen Starks, 69, passed away on Saturday, September 14, 2019. Paula was born to Jack Thomas and Ramona Orlene Mitchell on November 15, 1949 in Indianapolis, Indiana. The daughter of a Navy man, Paula moved on to Kansas, and graduated from high school in Colorado. She graduated from Emporia State College and began her teaching career in Sharon Springs, KS. where she met fellow teacher, Michael E. Starks. They were married in Rifle, Colorado on December 27, 1975. She was not only a wife but a partner. She supported Michael in everything he did, and could always be found at his side when needed. Paula was independent and strong and ran her home with ease. If Michael was on the road, or if he was home, her family knew their refuge was safe. She was the manager of the family, and her family was her heart. Her greatest joy was becoming a mother to her two daughters, Jessica and Marie. She was happiest when she was with them, whether it was when she took them to school, went shopping with them, or planned their weddings, it was the time they shared that she most cherished. A simple outing to the Bundt store was a cause for laughing and celebration. Her family enjoyed hearing her laugh and her quick wit. When her heart knew that her grandchildren needed a loving home, she welcomed them with open arms. Though there were days she was tired, she never questioned her commitment nor her decision. Paula was known to all her friends as a problem solver. Be it a garment to create, a tear to be sewn, or food to be prepared, Paula was truly a reliable friend. Paula loved to go out with friends. She loved luncheons, shopping, or a night out for dinner. Music and theatre were a big part of her life, and a chance to see Wicked or Book of Mormon was not to be missed. She enjoyed singing at church and was invited to sing for all occasions. Paula was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her loving husband, Michael; daughters, Marie (James) Castleberry and Jessica Starks; grandchildren, Orlene Brown and Shawn Heinrich; brother, Orley (Thea) Mitchell; sister, Georgia (Steve) Carter; and numerous extended family members. The family requests that donations be made to the Holy Trinity Education Fund. A Funeral Liturgy will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, September 21, 2019 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church. Inurnment will follow at Olivet Cemetery.

Service

Saturday, September 21, 2019 10:30am

Holy Trinity Catholic Church

1808 Hot Springs

CHEYENNE, WY

Interment

Olivet Cemetery

Pershing Blvd.

CHEYENNE, WY 82001