Alton Starlin died at his Point Dume home on Saturday. He was 83.
Starlin and his wife, Eleanor, moved to Point Dume in 1950, a time when there were few trees, no supermarkets or shopping centers, only two schools (Decker and Webster) and remote government in downtown Los Angeles.
In the true pioneering spirit of the early settlers, Starlin joined a small group of people who were determined to create a community in which to raise their families. He served as Malibu Postmaster and was also a charter member and past president of the Malibu Optimist Club; founding member of Our Lady of Malibu Men’s Club; captain of the Santa Monica Mounted Police, chairman of the Malibu Chapter of the United Way and chairman of the committee that brought municipal water to Malibu.
Many residents recall Starlin as being the man who was always there in times of trouble. During floods, fires and landslides, he could be depended upon with his truck and equipment, offering residents whatever help he could provide.
Starlin is survived by his wife; his daughters, Patty and Mary Ellen and his son, Jack.
The memorial service will take place at 10 a.m. on Oct. 11 at Our Lady of Malibu Church, followed by a reception in the church hall. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to Our Lady of Malibu Catholic School.