Garrett Starr

Garrett C. Starr, age 24, of Shullsburg, WI, passed away on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at Lafayette Clinic and Hospital in Darlington, WI.

Garrett was born on April 16, 2001, in Darlington, WI, the son of Melissa and Jeremy Dannar and Jeremy Starr. He grew up in Shullsburg, where he lived his entire life, surrounded by the love of his family and many friends. Despite the challenges he faced, Garrett attended Shullsburg High School and was a proud member of the Class of 2019.

At a very young age, Garrett was diagnosed with a rare childhood cancer that left him with lifelong disabilities. Though his journey was never easy, Garrett met each day with remarkable courage, resilience, and an unwavering spirit. He never complained, never gave up, and never lost his ability to smile. His strength went far beyond words, and his determination inspired everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Garrett loved being outdoors—especially fishing and swimming—and had a special fascination with animals, delighting in learning and sharing small facts about each one. He cherished time spent with his dogs, Ruger and Rex, and loved joking with his dad, JD, always eager to make others laugh. Garrett’s contagious laugh, bright smile, and joyful presence lit up every room. He also enjoyed painting and spending meaningful time with his family and friends.

To know Garrett was to know pure joy. He was a beautiful example of strength, courage, and perseverance, and his life—though far too short—was filled with love, laughter, and meaning.

Garrett is survived by his parents, Melissa (Jeremy) Dannar of Shullsburg and Jeremy Starr of Leadmine, Wi; his grandparents, Carl and Linda Ballard of Shullsburg, Carl Gatlin of Missouri, Gordy Starr and Phyllis Loner both of Edmund, WI; his aunts; Stacy (Carl) Fry of rural Shullsburg and Heather Wilkinson of Dodgeville, WI; his uncle, William “Bill” Buss of Shullsburg; his cousins, Spenser Buss, Cody Buss, Tanner Buss, Cooper Buss, and Luke Fry; and many special friends he met throughout his life. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather: David LeRoy Dannar; maternal great- grand parents: Harold and Bernice Brown and a great aunt: Kathleen Magby.

A private family memorial service will be held at a later date

Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com.