Friends, Family Memorialize Kelly Starrett with Music

Motorcycles and cars filled the parking lots around the Thirsty Sportsman in Des Moines Thursday night, as more than 200 people gathered to honor a beloved musician, family member and friend.

Kelly Starrett, 49, was killed last Sunday in a boating accident on the Des Moines River. Starrett, a musician for decades, had frequently played a Thursday night set at the Thirsty Sportsman. Several of Starrett's former band members, including Dave Jones, turned out to play in his memory.

"It's just tragic," Jones said. "(Kelly's) son's probably going to carry on. He taught his son everything from birth. I was just playing with his son, and it was like playing with Kelly again."

Starrett performed with several bands over the years, including Alchemist, Mosh Libido, and Roadshow.

Many of Starrett's friends described him as a good teacher.

"He was talented, but he would teach you," Jones said. "He had the patience."

Will Skully Jr. ran the lights for the show, as he had done for Starrett's shows for years.

"I was never mad at him, he was never mad at me," Skully Jr. said. "It's moving to see so many people here."

The benefit sold food and Kelly Starrett beer koozies dedicated to his memory. Proceeds from the event went toward helping the family pay funeral costs.

Lindsey Morrison kicked off the live concert.

"It was such an honor to play with Kelly," Morrison said to the crowd. "He was one of the most talented musicians I worked with. ... We're going to jam all night!"

Melody Bowen, a close friend of Starrett's, said it was awesome to see so many people come to the event.

"Kelly's here with us tonight," she said.

Another benefit will be held Friday at the Thirsty Sportsman, at 5 p.m.

Our Earlier Stories: