Sally E. (Rupp) Starr

Sally E. Starr, 75, of Fremont, Indiana peacefully returned home on March 9, 2023 in Excelsior, Minnesota after a long battle with Alzheimer’s. She is survived by her loving husband, John Hassleswerth, daughters Julie (Chuck) Flower, and Joni (Bill Bock) Starr, grandchildren Chandler Monroe, Marley Flower, Hudson Bock, and siblings Virgil (Marilynn) Rupp, and Sharon Steinke, along with many special nieces and nephews.

Sally was born and raised in Montpelier, Ohio, to loving parents Elon and Helen Rupp. She had a smile and personality that would light up any room. Sally was a friend to everyone she met; there were no strangers. She influenced everyone she met, in a positive way. She had a zest for life that was like no other. She gave everything she had to others, especially to her kids and grandkids. Sally spent her life raising her daughters who have both flourished and taken on an image of her. They raise their children to continue her strong family values. Chandler, Marley and Hudson brought so much joy to Sally’s life. 

Everything was an adventure for Sally. In recent years, she spent time traveling, sight-seeing and enjoying the landscapes of the world with John. If she could be anywhere, she’d be on a beach, watching beautiful sunsets with the waves rolling, walking hand-in-hand with John.

Sally had many interests and strengths in life. She was a home-decorating queen, master gardener, and cooking maven that many admired and envied. Dancing, music, exercising, and attending church were a big part of Sally’s life that kept her connected to many. Participating with her family in the Race for the Cure in memory of her mother, and later in honor of her daughter, was an annual highlight.  Building and decorating the house at Lake Pleasant, and giving full attention and patience to her award-winning flower gardens were a passion for Sally. 

Sally wore many hats proudly with determination. She excelled at everything she did - a perfectionist, often working many jobs at once. Administrative assistant, retail sales, realtor, house cleaner and manager were just a few of the many roles she loved.

Sally and her family were blessed to receive such incredible love and care these last few months from Trouvaille Memory Care and Grace Hospice. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, Trouvaille Memory Care (BeneTrou, Inc.), Grace Hospice Minnesota or Alzheimer’s Association.

A time to receive friends will take place on Saturday, April 1, 2023 from 9:30-11:00 AM at First United Methodist Church in Montpelier with a memorial service taking place at 11:00 at the church with Pastor Eric Dailey to officiate. Interment will follow at Riverside Cemetery in Montpelier.  

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.