Harry Starac

Harry Daniel Starac, 98, passed away peacefully at his home on August 28, 2026. He was born on April 10, 1928, and grew up in Naplate, Illinois, graduating from Ottawa High School.

A visitation for Harry will be held at Ottawa Funeral Home and Crematory on Friday, September 4, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. A funeral service will follow at the funeral home at 12:00 p.m. Burial will take place at Ottawa Avenue Cemetery.

Harry was a man who loved to build, explore, and stay busy. His lifelong love of boats began when he built his first boat at around 10 years old. He went on to spend much of his career building docks and boats for Starved Rock Marina, where he became a familiar and cherished presence. The largest boat he ever built was an impressive 65 feet long. Earlier this year, Harry was honored for being the oldest member of the Starved Rock Yacht Club.

He also worked at Libby-Owens Ford making windshields and spent many winters in Florida working aboard a shrimp fishing boat. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.

Harry enjoyed dancing, traveling, and most of all, creating things with his own two hands. He especially treasured his trips to Croatia to visit his family, who remained an important part of his life.

He is survived by his very special friend of more than 50 years, Evelyn Clayton, as well as many cousins and family members in Croatia.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Roman, and his sister Linda.

Harry will be remembered for his remarkable spirit, his love of the water, his hardworking hands, and the many things he built throughout a long and well-lived life. His memory will remain with all who were fortunate enough to know him.