Matt Starley

Bob Karby, DMD, plans to hang up his dental tools and take the next train headed west … or east; it just depends on which direction the Astoria Trolley happens to be headed at the moment.

Matt Starley, DMD, took over Karby’s practice as of Nov. 1. Starley comes from Eagle Point, where he practiced for three years after graduating from Oregon Health Sciences University.

While Starley looks forward to a career in general dentistry, Karby plans his retirement. He and his wife, Rosann, plan to travel. They’ve been to Africa, Greece and the Galapagos Islands and look forward to more international trips.

But it’s the 3-mile trips along Astoria’s waterfront Karby’s been thinking about in recent years. He would like to volunteer aboard the Old 300, the Astoria Riverfront Trolley.

“It was something I wanted to do, but it didn’t fit in with having a business,” he said.

Off hours were usually spent taking care of business issues or home life, he said.

Karby’s also a 30-year member of the Rotary and plans to continue with his service.

He wasn’t really looking to sell the business, but when Starley approached him with an offer he decided the time was right.

He’ll stay on for a short transition period as Starley gets established.

Starley’s wife, Kelsey, spent part of her childhood in the Astoria area. The couple are happy to be joining the community.

“We love the close-knit community,” he said “We’re happy to be calling the area home for the next 20 to 30 years or however long God lets me be around.”

The practice will keep its address and phone number, 520 15th St., Astoria, 503-325-6662. The new name will be Starley Family Dentistry.

As for Dr. Karby, he’s grateful to Astoria and his patients.

“Astoria’s been a wonderful place to call home. You couldn’t pick a better place to practice and raise a family.”