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FUNERAL HOME

Olthof Funeral Home - Elmira

1050 Pennsylvania Ave.

Elmira, New York

Richard Strong Obituary

STRONG, Richard W.

Rick, Papa & Uncle Dick

Was born May 13, 1953 in Elmira, the son of the late Gerald and Mildred (Towner) Strong Sr. passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, May 1, 2013 at the age of 59. He is survived by his loving wife of 27 years, Bonnie (Randall) Strong; daughter, Tabetha (Robinson) Kelsey; granddaughter, precious one, Tiffany Ronan; grandson, right hand man, Nathaniel Kelsey; sisters, Carol Martin and Susan (Robert) Allen; brothers, Gerald (Sherrill) Strong, James (Penny) Strong and Joseph (Susan) Strong; mother-in-law, Marti McKown and her children, Terry (Lynda), Dana (Roxanne), Debbie (Scott) and Sandra (John); and all of his loving nieces and nephews. Rick proudly served in the United States Navy and was retired as a Lieutenant with the New York State Department of Corrections. His love for family, friends and his hunting crew will never be forgotten. Rick was preceded in death by his younger brother, Jack Strong who just passed away April 21, 2013. Family and friends are invited to gather at the Olthof Funeral Home, Inc. 1050 Pennsylvania Ave. Elmira/Southport, NY on Sunday, May 5, 2013 from 1:00 to 3:00 PM and 5:00 to 7:00 PM. The Chemung County Veterans Honor Squad will accord Military Honors to Rick following the visitation at 7 PM, then Reverend David Sullivan will then honor the life and celebrate the memory of him following the Military service. Private interment services will be held in the Woodlawn National Cemetery at the convenience of his family. His family will provide their own flowers. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be directed to the American Heart Association, the American Diabetes Association or to the Elmwood Baptist Church. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Rick's guestbook may be signed in obituaries at www.olthof.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Star-Gazette from May 3 to May 5, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for Richard Strong

73 Entries

Tiffany Ronan

May 1, 2023

I could have sworn I wrote in this ten years ago Maybe my post was deleted Maybe I never hit send Who knows but ten years is better than never right?

A whole decade has passed Papa. So much has changed. I am not a psychologist like I originally planned, but I work at a great company with a wonderful work family that I would not trade for the world. You missed my entire twenties, and all the crazy changes that happened with them. I have seven tattoos now. Yes seven. Me who thought she would never have one now has seven with a plan of one more. Crazy huh?

I lost my way when you died, for the first two years I was an empty shell, that all changed though when my friend Trinidad, introduced me to K-Pop. Which in turn helped give me something to bond over with Grandma which helped us create some great memories. It’s kind of crazy what music can do huh?

I have two wonderful doggos that I know you would have just LOVED. You would have gotten a kick out of Lily. I am sure you watch us and laugh.

I also have my first home! I know you would be so proud! You were always so proud of me, no matter what I did. I am not going to lie though, having my house warming without you here. Without you and grandma both knowing you guys won’t see it knowing you won’t be able to spend a holiday here it hurts I do my best though to make his house my home. And though it needs some work because it was neglected over the years, I plan to be able to do what I can to help repair this home. I know you would have been right there helping me along the way, but I know you are happy I have others to lean on.

I got my first car that is my own too! Though I have a feeling with how things went down you helped me pick it out. Just like I wouldn’t be surprised if you helped me find Nyx and Lily.

I have so many stories to tell you Papa and it breaks my heart that I can’t tell you them not in the way I want

I miss you Papa I miss you so much. Thank you for everything you did for us. Thank you for everything you continue to do. Thank you for being the best grandfather. Thank you for being the best father.

I can’t wait to sit with you again some day and tell you all the stories just like we used to. Say hi to Uncle Jack, Aunt Carol, Uncle Jerry, Aunt Sherrill, Grammie, and of course Grandma for me. Til I see you again.

Tiffany Ronan

May 1, 2023

I could have sworn ten years ago I wrote something on here maybe it got deleted maybe I didn’t hit post Well ten years later is better than never right?

A whole decade has passed Papa. So much has changed. I am not a psychologist like I originally planned, but I work at a great company with a wonderful work family that I would not trade for the world. You missed my entire twenties, and all the crazy changes that happened with them. I have seven tattoos now. Yes seven. Me who thought she would never have one now has seven with a plan of one more. Crazy huh?

On my twenty-first birthday I had some drinks at Mac’s, yours and Uncle Jerry’s bar, in honor of you. And I even drank more than I should of with my last job, but we won’t talk about that.

I lost my way when you died, for the first two years I was an empty shell, that all changed though when my friend Trinidad, introduced me to K-Pop. Which in turn helped give me something to bond over with Grandma which helped us create some great memories. It’s kind of crazy what music can do huh?

I have two wonderful doggos that I know you would have just LOVED. You would have gotten a kick out of Lily. I am sure you watch us and laugh.

I also have my first home! I know you would be so proud! You were always so proud of me, no matter what I did. I am not going to lie though, having my house warming without you here. Without you and grandma both knowing you guys won’t see it knowing you won’t be able to spend a holiday here it hurts I do my best though to make his house my home. And though it needs some work because it was neglected over the years, I plan to be able to do what I can to help repair this home. I know you would have been right there helping me along the way, but I know you are happy I have others to lean on.

I got my first car that is my own too! Though I have a feeling with how things went down you helped me pick it out. Just like I wouldn’t be surprised if you helped me find Nyx and Lily.

I have so many stories to tell you Papa and it breaks my heart that I can’t tell you them not in the way I want

I miss you Papa I miss you so much. Thank you for everything you did for us. Thank you for everything you continue to do. Thank you for being the best grandfather. Thank you for being the best father.

I can’t wait to sit with you again some day and tell you all the stories just like we used to. Say hi to Uncle Jack, Aunt Carol, Uncle Jerry, Aunt Sherrill, Grammie, and of course Grandma for me. Til I see you again.

Four years gone from our lives, but not a moment gone from our hearts.

Tabetha Kelsey

May 1, 2017

Tabetha

May 13, 2016

I searched the basement all day today, literally ten minutes at a time, knowing there was *something* down there *somewhere*. In the final corner of the closet, in the bottom box, I managed to uncover just these few photos. Seeing your smile both warmed my heart and brought tears to my eyes at the same time. It's still so hard some days... But today I wish you a Happy Birthday, knowing you are celebrating with Aunt Carol, Uncle Jack, and your parents. Mom, the kids and I went to dinner at Cracker Barrel, I went to Mac's where my friends and I toasted to you.. I did not actually let a single tear fall, despite the fact that my heart still misses you terribly. Till I see you again Daddy..... <3

Tabetha

April 23, 2016

As the third anniversary of your death approaches, I find myself recalling your final days..the last few phone calls..checking in on you..asking about funeral and burial arrangements..checking in on the boys..making arrangements for Nat to go to the cemetery with you to clear away the burial site..clear up to the final phone call at 6pm the evening before you died. When I got your phone I saw that I was the last person you spoke to. I remember the call so clearly..... I had just sent you a picture of Uncle Jack's urn because you didn't get a clear one at the burial with your phone. You called to thank me for sending it to you and tell me how much that meant to you. You were so grateful. To me it was just a picture. I didn't really get it. Until Katie posted a picture of your burial table. I didn't get a picture of it that day. I was so thankful that she did, because I had her picture. I then fully appreciated your call. At least you got to enjoy it for a moment...
As I sit in the 10 day window between Uncle Jack's death and your death, I can't help but feel as though I'm in some sort of numbing state of limbo..making some kind of weird mental countdown to your last day. I told myself this year that I wasn't going to do this. But the memories come and they're so overwhelming. The tears immediately follow. It's a constant battle. A war between remembering, and forgetting....

Tabetha

May 3, 2015

As May 1st has cone and gone, I find it so hard to believe it's been two years without you. I scroll down just a couple of posts and see Aunt Carol's entries..she was so heart broken without you. As much as my heart bleeds for everyone she left behind, there is a sense of comfort knowing she is at peace with you and Uncle Jack. I miss you, Dad. I love you so much. <3

Tabetha

January 27, 2015

As devastating as today was, I take an ounce of comfort in knowing that you, Uncle Jack, and your parents welcomed Aunt Carol with your loving arms. Aunt Carol has been reunited with her Irish Twin. Please keep her safe.

Tabetha

January 23, 2015

Today started rough. I woke up thinking of you. That always sets my day up to be hard. The holidays were difficult..I thought maybe after the first without you it would get easier. Instead it was just the first reminder that you weren't here. Last year we at least had Gram, so some tradition continued. This year everything was turned upside down. Mom had a very hard time. But we got through, one foot in front of the other, as we always do. Still missing you as much today as the day you left, and loving you more.... <3

Memorial Day Collage 2014

Tabetha Kelsey

May 29, 2014

Tabetha

May 28, 2014

I got a tattoo for you today. You always talked about getting one, and never got the chance to do so. I know you wanted the cross and heart with my, Tiff's, Nat's, and Mom's names, but somehow that didn't seem fitting for me to get. So instead, I opted to pay homage to you by getting the Eagle and Flag from your urn. It's on the back of my right shoulder. Bridget gave me a hard time about getting it there, because I can't see it. That's okay..I know it's there. I decided on that placement because I knew that it would take a while, and that there would be a lot of detail in it, and I have a nice dead spot there because of the compressed discs in my neck, so I knew there would be somewhat of a reprieve at some points during the inking process. My artist did a beautiful job. He couldn't trace the picture that I sent him because it was too blurry, so he ended up drawing up something freehand. It took about 2 1/2 hours, and about and hour & a half in I wanted to punch him in the face, but in the end it was absolutely worth it. I love it, and I would do it ten times over for you. I hope you like it. I love you, and I miss you very much. Till I see you again.... <3

Birthday Message to Heaven

Tabetha

May 16, 2014

I took some flowers to the cemetery for your Birthday. I also took over a balloon and wrote a message on it, and released it for you. I watched it until it disappeared into the clouds. I like to think that was when you reached out and grabbed it. I miss you Dad..every day. I keep waiting for the day when the hurt gets better. People tell me it does. Those people obviously never hurt this badly before...

Carol

May 12, 2014

Here we go again our birthday is a few hours away and I am missing you so much that's all I have thought about for a while I use to look so forward to them and now it just doesn't seem to matter . The best part of us is no more and it breaks my heart. I love you and miss you and I miss us . Happy Birthday Babe enjoy your day in heaven !!!!

CArol

May 1, 2014

Well Rick I still have a hard time believing your gone I think about you so many times a day and miss you more than I can some times bare . It doesn't seem real even after this very long year. I was told it gets easier but I swear it is only getting harder I miss you and Jack, our talks and the laughter and the special times we spent together , rest in the loving arms of GOD and know you will always be my best friend in the world

Time changes nothing...

Tabetha

May 1, 2014

Tabetha

April 29, 2014

It was one year ago today..when I saw your face, saw your smile, heard your voice as you softly spoke in my ear, "My baby, I love you so much" as you wrapped your arms around me for what was to be the last time. If I had known then that these would be the "lasts" I would've held you a little longer, squeezed you a little harder, kissed your cheek a couple more times, told you I loved you 20 times more. Missing you terribly today, and loving you more. <3

Happy Easter Dad.. I love you <3

Tabetha

April 21, 2014

Tabetha

January 31, 2014

Tabetha

January 31, 2014

Sometimes I stare at your picture on my phone and I find it hard to believe that I won't ever see you again. Ever. It feels so surreal. Though the pain of losing you hasn't subsided, and missing you still makes my heart ache as much today as it did the day you left, the tears that fall are fewer. I suppose that means the healing has begun. I know that's what you would want, but moving on almost makes me feel guilty..as though I'm dishonoring your memory in some way. I know that sounds crazy in a sense, and it even feels somewhat irrational to me, but part of me feels like I need to continue to mourn you out of respect for you..to keep you alive in that manner. But I know that's not healthy, or even realistic. So I'm trying to move forward..to create my new normal, at my own pace. I love you so much Dad, and miss you every minute. <3

Tabetha

December 8, 2013

I appreciate the visit in my dream. It was so nice hearing your voice again. I so needed that. I love you so much and miss you every day Dad <3

Carol

November 12, 2013

I think of you constantly and miss you so much my heart is so heavy I often wonder if it will ever get better , I love you little brother and miss our talks and hugs when I need them the most .

November 11, 2013

Tabetha Kelsey

June 30, 2013

I thought of you last night while we were watching the fireworks. You always liked them so much. Now you have the best view ever. Loving and missing you as always...

Tabetha Kelsey

June 20, 2013

I'm having a hard time tonight. Missing you a lot. Not sure why..maybe because we're opening the pool tomorrow. Mom called Hesselson's to come over and open it..I'm going over to help them because she doesn't know where anything is. That may be why I'm so upset today. Just the anticipation of doing this-without you.

Happy Father's Day Daddy..I love you <3

June 17, 2013

Tabetha Kelsey

June 16, 2013

When I first woke up this morning, I reached for my phone, then I put it down. I picked it up again, and put it down. I reached for it for a third time, and started crying. I didn't have anyone to call to wish a Happy Father's Day. The rest of the day wasn't too bad though. Jamie and I took mom to the cemetery. I hate it there. We were there for about 20 minutes, and I didn't have even 30 seconds alone with you. I understand others have just as much right to be there as I, but it is so irritating when I'm not able to have a moment alone. I know it's what you wanted, but I hate that wall. I've been doing okay the last week or so. I spent some time alone, cried, screamed, got angry, then made the decision to take my life back, one day at a time. More of a conscious effort..forcing myself to move through the day. But I know I can't just allow myself to fall away. And I know you wouldn't want to see me just laying around in my chair all day being sad. Tiffany spent today with Hap. Nat spent the day with Jamie. All in all it was a good day. There was just that one piece missing... Happy Father's Day Daddy. I love you. <3

Tabetha Kelsey

June 4, 2013

Every morning I wake up and tell myself, "This is the day. Today is when I finally start to pull myself together and move forward." But then night falls, and it turns out it's just another day that I didn't get to talk to you..didn't get to text you..didn't get to hug you..didn't get to tell you I love you..didn't get to see you..didn't get to hear your voice. Just one more tick mark on the list of eternal days without you.

Tabetha Kelsey

June 1, 2013

It's been one month since we've had to try to learn to live our lives without you. The pain is just as raw today as it was a month ago. I keep waiting for it to feel better. It's not. I wish so badly I could just hug you one more time.

Tabetha Kelsey

May 31, 2013

Today was an insanely busy day. You would think that the busier I am, the better the day would be..but it's actually the opposite. I don't know..maybe because my stress level rises I become more emotional..but I thought of you all day today. Then I was watching a reality show, and a girl got a phone call from her mom saying that her dad passed away. That hit pretty hard. In general the last few days have been okay though. I've moved up from getting through one minute at a time to getting through one hour at a time. Hour by hour is about all I can focus on right now. At some point I'll reach day by day... I love you Dad, and miss you terribly.

Tabetha Kelsey

May 27, 2013

Today is Memorial Day. Your stone is up. Mom & I put up flowers for you yesterday. Jamie & I went to see you today & put up a flag. He shared a beer with you - Busch Light, of course. Then we stopped by Dan's grave to say Hi, then went to Jamie's dad's grave. Jamie no sooner got home and called to tell me the Eagles were making a fly by. Then one came over while I was there later in the afternoon. You would love to see them so close. They're so beautiful. We went to Grams' this afternoon. It was hard for mom. She was moved to tears when I told her about all the postings I saw on my Facebook in honor of you, with pictures of your stone. Jason, Jessica, Jennifer, Marianne..they all went to visit you today, too. It was hard not having you around today. I missed you, as I do every day. Happy Memorial Day, Dad. I love you.

Tabetha Kelsey

May 26, 2013

It's 4am and I find myself once again listening trying to lay my head to rest as the birds are awakening to start their day. Since when do the birds wake up before the bats go to sleep anyway? Today was better than yesterday - slightly. I read a beautiful poem today..it spoke of you watching over me, and how seeing me sad makes it hard for you to move on, on your side. I thought of that for a moment...can you see me? Are you watching over me? Do you hear me when I talk to you? I'm trying so hard to get my life together. I just want to make you proud. I just don't know how. The pain is overpowering.

Tabetha Kelsey

May 24, 2013

I had a terrible dream last night..I awoke this morning in a dizzying spiral..reality quickly crashing down reminding me that you're gone. I spent the entire day drowning in my own tears. I'm having a hard time understanding why each day becomes increasingly harder instead of easier. I miss you so...

Tabetha Kelsey

May 23, 2013

Each day I awake with a new hope to start moving on, but I just don't seem to get there. Though my intentions are good, I move on through the day with a fake smile..an occasional laugh to play along with others..all the while avoiding direct eye contact with anyone, for fear that if they look too long they'll see that behind my eyes I am nothing more than a bottomless pit..devoid of emotion. The pain and aching seems to have turned into a numbness, and I find myself turning into nothing more than a shell of my former being. I have become the definition of Lost. I have no clue how to do this without the one person that made me feel like I had the strength of a hundred men.

Tabetha Kelsey

May 21, 2013

Last night was the first night I didn't cry myself to sleep. I almost feel guilty for that, but I know you wouldn't want me to sit in a shell-like version of myself forever. Today I went with mom to run some errands..SSA, VA, Vital Statistics..she just couldn't do it alone. She really misses you. So does Aunt Carol. So do I....

Tabetha Kelsey

May 20, 2013

I spent the last couple nights at Jamies, and kept occupied, and was actually feeling a little better. Now that I'm home again the night has once more turned into the 3am Twilight hour as I find myself consumed with feelings of guilt and emptiness. I'm sorry I didn't spend more time with you. I'm sorry I wasn't more patient. I'm sorry for all the times you asked me what was wrong and I shut you out with a, "Nothing." I'm just sorry....

Tabetha Kelsey

May 17, 2013

I look at pictures of you, and I still find it so hard to believe that I'm never going to see you again. Jamie and I stayed up last night talking..I was finally able to share some funny stories about you..the "Get Low" from Christina's graduation..the "Tinky Winky" song from Christmas shopping..and I showed him what the "Sumo" is. It was nice to finally be able to think of you and not cry. I still miss you terribly though..I can't believe how much. I never thought it was possible to miss someone so badly.

Happy Birthday Dad <3

Tabetha Kelsey

May 16, 2013

It's been two weeks since you left..since you were taken away..since you went to be with your parents..since you went to lay in the arms of our Father. Any way you want to say it..it's been two weeks since our lives have been turned upside down. I'm trying so hard to come to a place where I can think of you with happy thoughts and fond memories. But I'm only able to think of you and cry. Hopefully one day soon... On your birthday we placed the Eagle statue in your yard. Mom, Jamie & the kids, Richie & Carla, Terry, Lynda & Karina, Sandy & John, and Gram were all there. It was nice. Gram suggested we say the Pledge of Allegiance, so we did. I hope you heard us. The kids and I stopped by the cemetery that day on our way to dinner to visit you. It was odd, and felt uncomfortable. I was literally talking to the wall. Actually, I guess it should've felt pretty natural. LoL Ahhh I miss joking with you and picking at you. I love you. <3

Tabetha Kelsey

May 15, 2013

I thought I saw your face in a cloud while I was driving. Then a tree ran between us and in a blink you were gone..again. I look for little signs of you everywhere, so desperate for some sense of you..aching to find a way to fill the hole in my heart..longing to find some sort of comfort. I had a hard time today, and felt very alone. I know there are people I can talk to, but it's not the same. You were the one I turned to when my world went awry. How am I supposed to get through the most devastating experience of my life without the one person that made me feel like I could conquer anything?

BUC Larry Sherman

May 14, 2013

Rick, as you watch over us, pay attention saturday night. The salty old group of Seabees you used to drill with will be meeting for dinner. We will hoist our glasses in your honor, as well as the others of the group that passed before you. So if you bump into Al Teeter,Don Gilbert, Phil Munson,Al Hicks, Jim Huntley, or Tony Rocchi, tell them to listen up too. You're missed, brother.

Tabetha Kelsey

May 13, 2013

Happy Birthday, Daddy.
At some point today I will be able to look toward the Heavens and say that with a smile. Right now I can only say it through the tears. I am so sad. I just miss you so much. Aunt Carol is doing surprisingly well. I told her I wasn't going to wish her a "happy" birthday..it seems somewhat trite at this point..but that I love her and am thinking of her. Mom is okay. She bought you a nice Eagle statue that holds a flag before you passed..it was at Grams' house. We're going to place that in the front lawn today. And we're going to dinner at one of your favorite restaurants. The Eagle is gorgeous. You would've loved it.

Tabetha Kelsey

May 12, 2013

Today is Mother's Day. It was hard. Jamie & I took mom and Winnie to lunch. That wasn't too bad. Then we went to Grams'. That's when it got difficult. When we went downstairs to eat and you weren't there. When I looked around remembering the last time we were all down there. Easter. You were with us. When I went downstairs and put down my phone and drink, my initial thought was "Where is dad gonna sit?" and I started to cry. I almost went upstairs, but I know that the firsts of everything are going to be hard. So I stayed downstairs and forced my way through it. Last night Jamie & I hosted a Burn the Blanket Bonfire. We burned the blanket that both you and Uncle Jack died with. It was so liberating. I felt such sweet release after we were done. We got a couple of interesting videos. You would've really enjoyed watching them. From the videos and pictures, it appears as though we had company last night? But perhaps you already knew that.. Your birthday is tomorrow..another hard day. But somehow we'll get through it. I love you. I miss you.

Tabetha Kelsey

May 10, 2013

I hate this time of day..when the silence gives way to reality, and I become a captive audience to my thoughts. I am reminded that you are gone..that I will never see you again..that I will never hear your voice again..that I will never again feel your arms around me..never again will I hear you tell me you love me or hear that almost irritating, "Remember..." as I'm getting in the car. It's almost impossible to remember anything happy right now..I am so consumed with pain..it crowds out the happy places that once filled my heart. And the pain turns to bitterness. I want it back. I want it all back! All the time we're supposed to have. When Nat? graduates High School. When Tiffany? graduates college. When Jamie & I get married. When your first great-grandchild is born. This isn't how it was supposed to be. I miss you so much.....

Tabetha Kelsey

May 8, 2013

I wrote earlier today. I don't see my entry. I'm wondering if the Powers That Be at legacy.com found something "inappropriate" in my entry. It normally only takes a couple of hours to show. Probably just as well. I was all over the place today. One minute I was okay, then I was crying, then I was tearing my house apart, then 30 seconds later I was okay again. It was crazy. I don't know..perhaps it will still show up. Today was the day that we honored your final wishes and entombed you in the wall for eternity at the National Cemetery. It was a hard day, but we got through it. Though initially I didn't want to go to the clubhouse after, I went. I was glad I did. Jamie would've made me go anyway, the same as I made him go to Bernie Murray's after his dad's funeral. It rained today during your graveside service, and only during the service, the same as it did at Uncle Jack's. Owen says it's because both you and Uncle Jack were crying because you miss us. It makes me wonder.. Though the whole family is feeling this loss, our name does more than reveal who we were born from..it defines our character. STRONG. We'll be okay..eventually... I love you Daddy. I hope we have done everything you would have wanted. May you eternally rest peacefully.

Tanya Allen

May 7, 2013

well Uncle Rick tomorrow is the day that we say our final farewell! I'm not ready for that at all. I am going to miss you coming into Sam's Club with Aunt Bonnie and getting a big hug and kiss from you or you saying I was walking in circles just so I could have another hug each time I ran into you! Well Uncle Rick I love you and miss you very much, things just wont be the same with out you! So this is not me saying good bye this is me saying farewell or see you later. I will always cherish the memories I have of you!

Tabetha Kelsey

May 7, 2013

Tomorrow we will lay you to rest. I am told this is the part where the healing begins. Okay. Nat got your quad today. You should see him with it. He's so proud. One minute I think we'll be okay..then it just hurts so bad, I'm not sure. Jamie tells me it's gonna hurt for a while. I just want to hit the fast forward button. I miss you so much...

May 7, 2013

To Rick's family, My prayers and thoughts are with you, Rick was in my Seabee detachment 0913, at Horseheads Naval Reserve Center and have thought about him many times over the past years. He always had the "CAN DO" spirit. He will be missed. EO1 Bill Wilkins Roanoke, VA

Tabetha Kelsey

May 6, 2013

Hi Daddy..

Your funeral was yesterday. That was the hardest thing I've ever had to do in my life..leaving you there knowing they were going to take you away & I would never see you again. So many people had so many wonderful things to say about you. I think my favorite was when Brian said you never played the favorites game, but you made everyone feel as though they were the favorite. That was very special, and so very true. The amount of people that came to offer their condolences, and the beautiful things they had to say were a true testament to the kind of man you were. I am so blessed to have been a part of your life. I miss you, and I love you.

George Kapnolas

May 5, 2013

Rick was one of the good guys, and will be missed, Rest in Peace Lieutenant.

Chuck & Carol Ellis

May 5, 2013

Our condolences to the Strong family. Jerry and Sherrill, we can only imagine how difficult the past two weeks have been. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.

David Augustine

May 5, 2013

rest in peace Rick

Joe Pangia

May 5, 2013

My thoughts and prayers are with the Strong family. I worked with Rick at Southport for many years. He was a great guy, always quick with a joke and a pleasure to work with. God bless.

Tabetha Kelsey

May 5, 2013

Hi Dad. Your funeral is today. It's still so surreal. I'm so tired. I can't sleep. I'm so lost. Today is going to be the hardest day of my life. I don't want to go. Aunt Carol told me I have to. I don't want to. All of the people are going to come. And then it will all be over. And they will take you away. And I'm never going to see you again. I miss you so bad. That phone call just keeps playing over and over in my head. It's a broken record. I can't make it stop. Someone needs to make it stop. Someone needs to tell me at some point I'll stop crying. Someone needs to tell me this is all a mistake. Or a just a dream. Or a really horrible nightmare.

Pete sr. Mastrantonio

May 4, 2013

Rick, My prayers are with you and your family buddy. We sure had a lot of laughs in jail, Elmira and Southport. Rest in peace my friend.

Rick, my prayers are with you and your family buddy.We sure had a lot of laughs in jail, Southport and Elmira.
Rest in peace my friend...

American Heart Association

May 4, 2013

May your memories of the wonderful times you shared with your loved one comfort you and your family, today and always.

Charlie Worle

May 4, 2013

Rick,you were one of the best.Rest in peace.

John Rich

May 4, 2013

I went to the academy with Rick. Worked with him many years through our careers. Great guy and will be truely missed. Thoughts and prayers are with the Strong family. R.I.P my friend.

May 3, 2013

My brother my best friend my Irish twin I love you multiple times over as you told me the other day . Our Birthday will never be the same again. But i will always cherish the 58 special ones we did share , Give Mom, Dad and Jack a hug and kiss for me I love you and will miss you forever

al hager

May 3, 2013

TO RICKS FAMILY;i have worked with him at elmira and southport for many years.he was a good officer and friend on and off the job.i know several of you for years.may our God keep you all in the palm of his hand during this time.REST IN PEACE MY BROTHER,REST IN PEACE.

Carol Martin

May 3, 2013

I love you and have no idea what i will do with out you in my life. For almost 59 years we have shared birthdays and cakes you were as Gayle put it my Irish twin I love you forever or in your own words multiple times over, Rest in peace my wonderful brother and give Mom ,Dad and Jack all a kiss and hug for I love you forever and always

mary jones (norton)

May 3, 2013

to the whole strong family. my condolences for the loss of rick he was a kind man. he made me laugh every time I seen him.

Sherrie (Bauer) Pizzo

May 3, 2013

Dear Yvonne and family,

Sincere condolences to all.

Sandy Henry

May 3, 2013

I miss you so much. Give Dad a hug for me. I'm glad you are at peace now. Love you bunches!!!

Wanda Kleinschmidt

May 3, 2013

Rick,
I always loved and thought of you as my own brother, when ever I saw you, you always had that great big hug for me, you where loved by so many friends and family.. you where the glue that kept everything together, you will be missed so much.....

BUC Larry Sherman

May 3, 2013

Rick was a brother in arms Vietnam vet and fellow Seabee at Horseheads Naval Reserve Center. Ask him to do something it got done. He will be and is sorely missed by all who knew him. "Fair winds and following seas", Rick. "Can Do"

Eddie Murphy

May 3, 2013

To Rick's family You are all in my prayers and thoughts. I worked with Rick at Elmira C.F. and Southport C.F. for many years. I will always remember Rick With that devilish grin he would get when he would come up with a joke to pull on one of the other guys. I will miss him.

Danny & Carol Morton

May 3, 2013

Rick was a trusted and loyal friend. He touched many lives. He is missed! Bonnie, our love and prayers go out to you and all of yours. May God bless!

Judy & Jim Hunt & Peters

May 3, 2013

Jim and I both loved Rick like a brother. Our prayers go out to all of you. We will miss his joyful laughter and kjnd heart, he was a great friend.

Love you forever Daddy <3

Tabetha Kelsey

May 3, 2013

Some family we are born into. Some family is thrust upon us. And some family is chosen. Thank you, Daddy, for choosing me as your daughter. I know there have been times over the years I didn't make it easy on you. I appreciate your kindness, your patience, your sternness, but most of all, the unconditional love you provided me. The love and support you have given my children over the years means more to me than I can ever express into words. It's only been two days and I already miss you so much. I never realized it was possible for a heart to physically hurt so badly. Everyone keeps telling me I have to be strong for my kids & mom. God, I'm so tired of hearing that.. I just lost my dad..who's strong for me? But I dig in, feel your arms around me, and hear your voice in my head.. "We'll get through it baby, we always do. I love you so much, baby, you know that?" Never doubted it for a minute. I love you Dad. Until I see you again....

larry and pat thompson

May 3, 2013

so very shocked and saddened at Rick's sudden passing; remembering you all in prayer

Dick Hewitt

May 3, 2013

Strong Family, So sorry to hear of Rick's passing. I worked with him for many years in Corrections and he was a GREAT GUY.He was always there when you needed him.He will be missed but never forgotten. God bless

Eddie Murphy

May 3, 2013

Ken Pierce

May 3, 2013

To Rick's family, I have known Rick for the past 35 years, having meet him through his cousin and then working with him at Leprino's and the Department of Corrections. My thoughts go out to you on his passing. You are in my thoughts

Charlie Marshall

May 3, 2013

To Rick's family, I knew Rick in high school and then worked together at Southport and Bayview. He was a trusted friend and coworker. Always talked about his family. He loved you very much. May God comfort you in this sad time.

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