Scott M. Starlin

Scott M. Starlin, 53, of Cadillac passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, March 15, 2026 in Cadillac. Scott was born March 2, 1973 in Cadillac to Clorinda (King) Starlin and R J Starlin. After graduating from Cadillac Senior High School, Scott remained in the Cadillac area, taking classes at Baker College and working until a work-related accident prevented him from continuing his occupation and limiting his mobility. Although the accident altered his lifestyle, Scott remained active in the things he enjoyed. Scott was a talented photographer and artist, creating pen and ink drawings from photographs. He also enjoyed spending time outdoors. Scott learned very quickly and excelled at computers and everything “techy.” Scott was known among his family and friends as the one who would always provide a helping hand with anything from life advice to tech support and anything in between. He loved deeply those who were important to him. Scott married Cindy Rutkowski July 10, 1996 and, while they divorced in 2001, they had remained friends until the time of his death and Cindy survives him. In addition to Cindy, Scott will be sadly missed and is survived by his son, Robert Starlin (Kimberly Mathis) and their sons, Owen and Austin, of Holly, MI, his mother, Clorinda (King) Starlin of Cadillac; brother, Robert Starlin (Dr. Helane Folske-Starlin, Deceased February 20, 2026) of Conception Junction, MO; sister, Jessica Starlin-Ronan (William), nieces, Cloey and Hazel, and nephew, William Ronan, all of Cadillac. He is also survived by aunts and uncles, Bill and Sandie King and Hazel Holly all of Cadillac, Kevin and Gena King of East Jordan, Connie Starlin of Cedar Springs, Juanita Gibbons of Farwell, Michael (April) Starlin and James Starlin of McBain, as well as many cousins and friends. Scott was preceded in death by his father, R J Starlin, an infant brother, Brian, his paternal grandparents, Wallace and Gurley Starlin, maternal grandparents, Richard and Ardith King, uncles and aunts, Bobby F. Starlin, Milan Starlin, Marshall and Carol Starlin and Ruby Gibbons. Suicide is a tragedy no one expects and leaves the survivors to struggle with, not only profound grief of loss, but also questions of wondering, whether more could have been done – even while seeing the signs and attempting to help. If you suspect someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm, Scott’s entire family urges you to take whatever steps are available to talk to someone and seek help in the hope of preventing a tragic outcome. Cremation has taken place and there will be a celebration of life later in the summer. An online guestbook is available at www.petersonfh.com.

Scott M. Starlin

March 2, 1973 - March 17, 2026