ML Starks, age 78, passed away peacefully following a complicated battle with dementia, on Saturday morning, June 20, 2026. ML was born in Grenada, Mississippi on July 7, 1947, to the late Rufus and Benetta (née: Robinson) Starks. ML moved to Racine, WI at the age of 21 for a better quality of life. ML was a forklift driver for JI Case Company, Racine, WI for 30 years and retired. ML was a humble, patient, and God-serving man. He enjoyed shooting pool, cooking, gardening, and working on cars. With profound faith, ML was a 35-year member of the Midtown Church of Christ. ML had three children, Donna Cerise, Robert Starks, LeRon Starks; grandchildren, Dalana Gumina, Darien Davis, Kiara Starks, Tatiana Dunbar, Joseph Dunbar, Jakari Cole, Jarvis Starks, Damari Starks; brothers; James Starks, Willie Starks, Mavin Starks; sisters, Bertha (née: Starks) Howard, Dorthy (née: Starks) Allen, Gary (née: Starks) Horn; a host of nieces and nephews, great grandchildren and other relatives and friends – too numerous to mention by name. ML was preceded in death by his parents, Rufus and Benetta Starks; brothers, Robert Starks, Larry Starks, Nathaniel Starks; sisters, Joe (nee: Starks) Berry Hill, Annie (née: Starks) White, Jesse Starks.

Funeral services for Mr. Starks will take place on Monday, June 29, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. in the Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home, with Pastor Johnny Ford officiating. There will be a visitation beginning at 10:00 A.M. until the time of services.