Walt Stricklin, 80, born March 5, 1935, died at St. Elizabeth?s Hospital on Saturday, August 22nd. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday August 27, 2015 at St. Mary?s Church in Naplate, with Rev. David Kipfer, officiating. Visitation will be at Mueller Funeral Home on Wednesday, August 26th from 4 to7 p.m., with Liturgical Prayers recited at 3:45 p.m. Per Walter?s wishes, burial will be at St. Columba Cemetery in Ottawa, following cremation.Sonny was the oldest of three children born to Walter and June (McCullough) Stricklin. He and his bride, Florence (Preci) Stricklin celebrated 58 years of marriage, raising their four children?Sherrie and Linda, both of Ottawa, Gayle, of Joliet, and Mike (Julie) of Grand Ridge. Spending time with his grandson, Jake, and Jake?s girlfriend, Jonni Rowe, brought him great joy. After his service in the army at Fort Riley, Kansas, Flossie and Sonny returned to Illinois where he worked at Libby Owens Ford for 43 years, including some time as an elected union official. Walt was very involved in the community of Naplate and proudly served as a police officer, board member, and volunteer fireman including service as the fire chief. Some of Walt?s favorite times were those spent with his golfing buddies and Friday night Moose friends. If not watching wrestling or playing a family card game, you could usually find Walt in his garage shop working on cherished heirlooms for those he loved. Sonny was happiest when he was ribbing someone and could always be heard by his familiar whistle. He shared his gift of music with his children and continued to be their most fervent supporter from school fundraisers through their adult endeavors. On a sunny day, Sonny could be found gardening, garage ?saleing?, or golfing. He was looking forward to spending more time on his new golf cart cruising the village. When he couldn?t arrange for a trip to Jumer?s, scratch-off lottery tickets were the next best thing. Walt enjoyed nothing more than sitting down for Flossie?s home-cooking surrounded by his family. Sonny will forever hold a special place in our hearts and will be dearly missed. Walter is survived by his wife, children and grandson. He was welcomed into heaven by his parents, brother, George (Pete) and sister, Patricia Keegan. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the donor?s choice.
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