Larry D. Strickland, 57 years old of Pleasant Prairie, WI passed away Thursday, January 14, 2021, at his home after a long battle with cancer. He was born May 7, 1963, in Portland, ME the son of the late Edward S. and Pauline (Lewis) Strickland. Larry grew up in Taylor, MI and moved to Texas when he joined the Army. He served as a military policeman, and stayed in the Army Reserves for several years. Larry completed his degree in Occupational Therapy, and worked in Dallas, TX- where he met his wife. Longing for the midwest, they moved to Northbrook, IL, and eventually southeast Wisconsin. He lived in Yorkville, WI for many years before settling in Pleasant Prairie, WI in 2019. Larry worked as an occupational therapist for over 20 years. He quit working full-time due to health reasons and started substitute teaching. He loved working with kids and teaching - he also coached football and volunteered in 4-H. He was a passionate gardener, especially natural landscape design, and restoration and preservation of the environment. He coordinated the plantings of hundreds of trees in Racine County. Larry was proud to have his wildflower garden shown as part of the Racine Garden Club Tour. He was a talented fine-scale model builder, specifically sci-fi and Star Trek models. He worked to pass on his passion for his skill to the younger generation and 4-H youth. Larry was outgoing and very social- he could talk to anyone, anywhere, and loved to put a smile on everyone’s face. He will be forever known for his sense of humor- always a joke up his sleeve; and his kind, servant heart. Survivors include his wife of 28 years, Bernadette; his son Nathan Strickland; and siblings, Sharon “Cooky” Donahue of ME, Gary (Gaby) Strickland of Germany, and Penny Hardy of TX. In addition to his parents, Larry was preceded in death by his sister, Charlene “Babe” Strickland. Memorial visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 6, 2021, at Proko Funeral Home with a memorial service commencing at 11:00 a.m. Proko Funeral Home & Crematory5111-60th Street Kenosha, WI 53144Phone: (262) 654-3533Visit & Sign Larry’s Online Memorial Book at:www.prokofuneralhome.com
Condolences
JOHN LESTER
February 2, 2021
So many memories - the Wonderfests, club meetings, those Northwestern v. Michigan games. Nathan and Sarah enthralled by "Finding Nemo". The cookouts. The halloween bonfires ("(it's not a fire if you don't burn the whole tree!"). His meticulous attention to the smallest details - and the ability to deadpan a joke that would have everyone falling out of their chairs (I remember well the time we almost had to call the paramedics because he got McDaniel laughing so hard he was gasping...) And that grin.Good times. Vince sent me these pix - they're from the Wonderfest pool party the only year I didn't go because Sarah had just been born. Everyone was so young!
Dezra and Rick Eichhorn
January 24, 2021
Bernie and Nathan,We have been recalling many fond memories of the fun times we had with you guys many years ago. We will always remember Larry’s sense of humor and his willingness to help others. He had a way of looking at the bright side of difficult situations. Praying that the great memories of a life will-lived will give you and Nathan peace. Much love,Dezra and Rick Eichhorn
Carrie Moyer
January 22, 2021
Bernadette and Nathan, We are Shorewest Realtors are so sorry to hear of your loss of your husband and father, Larry. We so enjoyed assisting you in finding your home in Pleasant Prairie and selling your beautiful home in Yorkville. I remember our many conversations fondly. He made me laugh so many times. May Larry rest in peace. God bless you and your family! Carrie Moyer and Shorewest Realtors, Racine