Chaz Strickland

Chaz Strickland, age 75, of Denver, Colorado passed away on Sunday, May 21, 2023.
He is survived by his sister Kathleen and brother Fred; his son Zach (Miku) and their daughters Tobi and Ali, who reside in Osaka Japan; son Lucas (Sam) and their son Jasper, residing in Littleton Colorado; son Pearce (Zaya) and their daughter Mandukhai, residing in Osaka Japan; and daughter Ana-Merrey (Mike), residing in Wasilla Alaska.
Chaz was born in Elkton Maryland managing to live in several eastern states as his IBM family transferred around a bit. He finished high school in Huntsville Alabama. He earned a B.A. in Economics at Bucknell University in Pennsylvania in 1969, and a B.A. in History at Metropolitan State College in Colorado in 1977. He served in the Army as a 1st Lieutenant in 1970-71.
His love of folk music was a constant in his life. He wrote many a tune and while he performed a good bit in church and folk groups and a recorder ensemble, he liked best to be thought of as just singing around the campfire with family and friends. Most of Chaz' professional life was dedicated to teaching music to all ages. His primary instruments were guitar and piano, but he also shared lessons in drum, bass, recorder and would learn anything to share in the musical experience.
His list of other jobs throughout his life included: delivery driver, stripper (of furniture), janitor, dishwasher, cook, maintenance, administrative asst., construction worker, McDonalds manager, foreman, salesman, infantry officer, but music reigned.
Chaz, in his youth, was devoted to playing baseball, basketball, and football, but later enjoyed tennis and softball as well. Running became a passion, but cycling became his constant exercise, along with 'gym & swim'. He got serious about ping-pong, moved a table into the basement, included pong in music lessons, and invited everyone he met to come play!
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.olingerchapelhill.com for the Strickland family.