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Stephen Benedict Stroh
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Steve (Stephen) Long
August 21, 2022
10 years now, and I still smile when I think of Steve. My memories are of my best childhood friend. I still remember his childhood phone number and the family house over on Wycliffe Rd.
In grade school I remember going to his house often after school: our regular snack was Sweetened Lemon Ice Tea and `Triscuit´ crackers.
I remember sleep overs and the beer can collection on both walls of a hall downstairs, the "real" full size pinball machine in the long playroom that sometimes would become our carpeted hockey rink with plastic sticks (and probably fairly noisy!)
I remember our bike rides that seemed way far away to Hopkins to the Ben Franklin store to buy candy and stopping by Town´s Edge Ford where his father worked and I believe co-owned at the time. Each trip was an adventure and felt like we were really going far away. Dang that was fun.
I remember playing catch with the baseball in his backyard.
One time we put on a neighborhood carnival in that backyard: I think it was just the two of us with a bunch of booths/games and prizes of candy (from Hopkins) and maybe some old stuffed animals, lol. And neighborhood kids actually did show up.
Those were the grade school days.
For years and years we went to Boy Scout Camp Manypoint, we were always tent mates in the old green canvas military surplus tents with matching green canvas fold up cots.
I used to just call him Stroh, not Steve- not sure why. Anyway Stroh was always Stroh! On multiple occasions I (heavy sleeper) woke up in the morning in my cot out in the woods somewhere -not in the tent.
In high school we used to cruise around in his Ford, I didn´t have a car yet and we listened over and over to the two cassettes he had: Foreigner an Queen. Still love those songs: and always remember Steve when I hear them, and they make me smile.
I remember in those years going to Davanni´s pizza and giving the name "Elston" (last name Dirvini) for them to call out when our pizza was ready.
That was Steve, and we´d always get a snicker out of it.
I remember one evening sliding down a steep hill at Countryside Elementary: it was muddy from the rain, so we slid down on our bellies probably more than once, probably hooting, hollering and laughing, then hopped in the car and went to Embers in those clothes, decided not to use our hands, arms, or utensils and just eat with our mouths. Not sure, but we may have ordered fried chicken.
We used to do that kind of stuff.
When he and Caroline were married and living in Plymouth, maybe early 90´s, he was like "let me show you something"...and I think that was the first time I saw the internet in action: He was like "Watch this" and typed in like "tiger" and pictures of tigers appeared on a screen, and he typed in other animal names and they would show up...I was like "Whoa...wow...that´s cool!"
One more memory...probably the summer of 1977 or so...I got to with his family to the state fair. I remember going in a very cool Ford conversion van: it was sweet with seats that could spin around, guessing there was a little table in there: those were the new and trendy thing! Anyway I remember going to see the tractors at the fair: I´m sure we saw other stuff too.
That was a long time ago, but Steve lives on in my heart and my memories.
There´s so many more fun things than I can list: like all the North Star games we used to go to oftentimes with my brother Jeff.
Anyway, I cherish our times as kids and am proud of the man: husband, dad, Police officer he grew up to be.
He was a kind, fun, funny, trustworthy, and loyal guy, even as a kid.
I am so sorry he´s passed on.
But, I believe in heaven he´s the same Steve we all remember.
And, my heart, as my childhood best friend, is only one of many hearts in which Steve lives on.
All this time later he can still make me laugh and often smile and shake my head at the some of the fun goofy things we did together.
I´m thankful and blessed and happy for all of the above.
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you guys (Stroh family): I can only imagine how many fun memories you guys have.
Blessings.
Steve (Stephen) Long
8.21.22
Brandon Deshler
August 21, 2022
Hard to believe it´s already 10 years since your departure from this life. Shortly after I retired from the P.D. In 2007, I began writing down thoughts that would pop into my head from time to time. (I shared one of these thoughts in my 2020 entry on this website.)
Thought another one, from my now 37 page "Manifesto", might again be appropriate.
Perhaps "Life" is little more than than a brief vacation from the Eternity of the Soul.........
May we meet again, on your next "Vacation" my brother.
In Peace,
Brandon Deshler (Edina Police retired)
Brandon Deshler
August 20, 2020
Wow........hard to believe it’s been 8 years since you left us.
As I stated previously, all of my memories of you bring a smile to my face.........
The following was “given” to me by deceased mother shortly after her passing in 2011.
“If it is GODS breath that brings us life,
then it is through our lives that GOD breathes”
I’m certain that GOD was never short of breath while you were with us.
‘till we meet again,
Rest In Peace Brother..............
BD
Edina Police (retired)
Kathy Jarvnen
September 18, 2012
I want of offer my sympathy to all of Steve's family for the loss of Steve. I never had the pleasure of getting to know Steve but reading about Steve makes me feel his passing is such a profound loss to the many that knew and loved him. I can only imagine that he was a wonderful husband, father, friend, police officer and son. His mother, Kathleen, is my dear classmate and he must have inherited some of the qualities that I love in his mother, her wonderful sense of humor, her intelligence, her kindness, and her amazing devotion to her family. I pray you all will find the strength to carry on and can find peace in remembering all the happy memories you shared. My condolences to all of you.
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Bob Carl
September 9, 2012
Cancer sucks!!! Thank you for being honest!
Paul Foley
September 5, 2012
Carolyn
My last interaction with Steve was about 10 years ago. I was mowing my parents lawn on one of my visits back to Edina, and an Edina police car stop at the curb. I was scared I wasn't mowing up to Edina standards until out stepped Steve. He had a broad smile on his face and we had a wonderful visit. He seemed very happy with his life. I have found memories of Steve from OLG and BSM days. I am sorry for your loss, but I hope you can find some peace in knowing that Steve touched and brightened more lives than I believe he ever knew. May God Bless your entire family.
Paul Foley
Robert Bauleke
August 31, 2012
I first met Steve Stroh when I was about 5 yrs old, when he appeared one night at our front door. I was amazed that a policeman would come to my house! Much to my mother's relief he came only to greet my babysitter, a former high school friend. Officer Stroh kept returning to our street and every time I saw him sitting in his patrol car, watching his radar for the Interlachen Blvd speedsters, he welcomed me into conversation and sometimes into his car.
Steve was a friendly, even funny, police officer who cared so much for people and yet took his responsibilities very seriously. There was a time to talk and be friendly but his work responsibilities were always front and center. He liked working in the Edina community but also shared his concerns about underage drinking and drug use amongst high school students.
Two years ago, after returning from a deployment to Iraq, friends and neighbors held a welcome home party on our street. An Edina squad car pulled up, parked at the same familiar corner and out stepped Officer Steve Stroh. He walked over, greeted me with a handshake and we talked about my time in Iraq. He was interested and asked questions about my deployment...it was the same old Steve, focusing his attention on others.
Steve Stroh was not only a dedicated public servant but a genuine man who inspired those that met him on a daily basis as he served the people of Edina. He will be greatly missed by all those who had the opportunity to know and work with him.
Robert F. Bauleke
CPT, Field Artillery
United States Army
Melissa Foesch
August 30, 2012
Caroline, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your daughter at this time. I feel so fortunate to have been able to be one of the many to take care of Steve. I will so miss his great personality and the talks I had with both of you. He had such an energy about him;) so outgoing! I will never forget how I'd come in and he'd already had done his weight, his own b/pressure, etc..he would just tell me when I came in, I'd laugh! He was an "Awesome" man. I am so glad I was able to see him quick the day he was admitted. He will be greatly missed by alot of people. I know it may be hard for you but, please come see us sometime. Would like to make sure you guy's are doing ok;) Big Hugs to you and your family.
Mary Frey (OLG)
August 30, 2012
Steve was in my class at OLG. He was a quiet guy and very kind, and sweet.
My oldest brother was diagnosed with the same cancer, and I know I tried to connect the two of them, but I don't know if they ever did.
The world is a better place because Steve was here.
Sorry for your loss. So sorry.
Maureen Burns Fischer
August 30, 2012
Steve was my next door neighbor and playmate when he and his family lived on Jefferson. It sounds like he grew up to be a really good man. I am so sorry for your loss.
Father Ralph Goman
August 30, 2012
Ben and Kathleen: I am very sorry to hear of the death of your son, Stephen. John Malone had kept me up to date on his health, and I have kept him -- and all of his family, you especially -- in my prayers. I am sorry I missed the notice of his death and the services, but please be assured of my continued prayers for his eternal happiness; I wish I had known him because John Malone was always very high in his praises of Stephen (and, as you know, that kind of praise does not always come from John). My good wishes and prayers for renewed faith and confidence in our loving God, and for comfort from God and from each other, to you both, and to Stephen's family. God's blessings on you all.
Joe & ArLene Haiden
August 30, 2012
Ben & Kathleen... You are in our prayers. Steve sounds like such a "Special Gift" - how blessed you are to have had such a wonderful son. God bless you and his family.
August 30, 2012
My deepest sympathies in the loss of Steve. He is in my thoughts and prayers.
Lee Ann Oczak
Brandon Deshler
August 29, 2012
Steve,
As a fellow (retired 2007) Edina Cop, I have many memories of my 20-some year day to day interactions with you.
Pretty much all of them bring a smile to my face.
I can think of no greater tribute.
Rest In Peace.......DUDE!
BD
Theresa Lanners
August 29, 2012
Kathleen and Ben,You are in my thoughts and prayers.I am so sorry to hear of your son Steve's death.May God send you strength in your sorrow. Sincere sympathy to you and all of your family
annette reifschneider
August 29, 2012
Although I did not know your fine son, I feel compelled to express my sympathy in this huge loss. Your family is a beacon for trust & loving ways. May God rest his soul and give all of you the gift of peace and comfort in his memory.
August 28, 2012
Caroline & Shannon,
Thinking of all your family. Your Christmas letters were always a tribute
to your togetherness and to your devotion to family. You are in our prayers.
Hank & Sharon Graef
August 28, 2012
Kathleen and Ben.. Please accept my sincere condolences as you grieve. I cannot imagine your sorrow, but will keep you in my prayers.
God's peace be with you,
Barbara Lupient
Jodi Wishart
August 28, 2012
Caroline I am so sorry. Steve responded to more than one call to my grand parents homes in Edina; always very comforting to have him there. Our hearts are with you.
Sigrid & Roger Buck
August 28, 2012
Kathleen & Ben .....there are no words, just prayers and support.
God Bless Stephen
Bill Johnson
August 28, 2012
Steve was my roommate freshman and sophmore year at College of St. Thomas. I am very saddned to hear of his passing. What a great guy! Always full of energy and laughter. He made us all laugh. One of the highlights was a spring break trip that we took to Florida. I think he started his police career on that trip by watching out for all of us. He will be missed by all. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Jim and Jan Doudiet
August 28, 2012
As Edina residents, we send our heartfelt sympathies to Steve's family and the Edina Police Department family. Your loss is great.
Pat McCabe
August 27, 2012
My thoughts and prayers go to Steve's family, friends and his partners at the Edina Police Department! May he now be free from this awful disease!
Maureen O'Hehir
August 27, 2012
I am so saddened to hear of Steve's death. I attended the Master's Program with him and think of him fondly. My heart goes out to his family. He was a good man.
Bernadine Renkes Hagaman
August 27, 2012
I did not know Stephen, but I attended High School with his Dad, Ben. My sympathy goes out to all of you.
Michael & Jackie Greiner
August 27, 2012
Steve, was involved with the boy scouts of america back when I was, young. I remember him teaching us different methods of "aprehending" suspects, much to my dismay, my brother would use them on me. He always made time for us if we needed somebody to talk with or that extra help on a project. Again, recently Steve came into my life when he assisted us with the investigation of my father inlaws passing. He took the time and energy to go the extra mile to talk with my wife and myself discussing the case at length, answering all of our questions. I will never forget Steve... Our thoughts and prayers are with you all in this trying time.
Mary Hougnon Benjamin
August 27, 2012
Steve was a great friend to my brother Tommy Hougnon since their days at BSM. Of course I babysat Steve, along with Anne and John, and appreciated the time he gave me a warning for no tabs instead of a ticket! He also drove past my house when my kids were little and their Dad was traveling and my kids thought that was so cool that their Uncle Tom knew an Edina Police Officer who would watch our house! He was an exceptional person and I am honored to have known him. Prayers to his entire family.
Ryan Wood
August 27, 2012
In a prior job I used to speak with Sgt. Stroh on a nearly daily basis. I was lucky to see him a couple months ago, best wishes to his young family.
Mary Quigley Donovan
August 27, 2012
Kathleen, Ben, and family,
My love and prayers on the loss of Steve. While I never met him, he was often in my heart and thoughts through prayer and I will continue to remember all the Stroh family. Steve is now in the loving arms of Our Lord.
August 27, 2012
Kathy--My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult journey. Bea (Ruddy)Henschell
Kathleen Ziegler
August 27, 2012
Kathleen:
I never had the privilege of meeting the fine young man who was your son for 47 years. His obituary tells me he was a son to be proud of, as I'm sure you were. Parents aren't supposed to bury their children so I'm sure your heart is breaking. My prayers are with you as you struggle through these difficult days. Think about all the good times you had together and all the ways he made the world a better and safer place. Feel a little consoled knowing that you helped the world by raising such a fine young son and that our sympathy is with you for your loss as you say good bye to him. Kathy Koppy Ziegler
Megan Tyhacz
August 27, 2012
Dear Carolyn and Shannon, Our deepest sympathy to you and your family on the pass of Steve...an amazing Son, Husband and Father, Brother and Friend. You are all in our constant thoughts and prayers during this time of great loss. With Love from Long Island, Megan, John and Elizabeth Tyhacz
Charles Harvey
August 27, 2012
I did not know Sgt. Stroh,but as a fellow
law enforcement officer I feel I want to
comment.
That he worked as long as able says it
all.
Bless him and family.
Charles S. Harvey
El Paso, Texas P.D.
Kevin Simeon
August 27, 2012
I knew Steve since playing in Edina's little league baseball, through out HS at BSM and 4 years at St. Thomas, I was not surprised to see him retutn to his Edina roots and serve as a proud member of the community, a role model for many.
RIP Steve.
nancy hansen
August 27, 2012
Steve was one in a million, we're so lucky to have known him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Love to you all.
Amy Brinkman
August 27, 2012
Caroline and Shannon,
Words cannot express how sad we are for both of you. Steve was a great man, with a great wife and daughter by his side. May you be comforted by God's grace and the love of your family and friends at this difficult time.
With love,
Amy & Greg Brinkman
Danielle Johannes
Carolyn Duffy
August 27, 2012
Dear Caroline, Heard of your loss last weekend, during the Tau event, and my prayers are with you and your family. You were missed by your AOPi sisters.
Alpha Love to my Little Sister, Carolyn Richardson Duffy
August 27, 2012
I remember how well Steve related to the kids when he was part of a drug program in the Edina Schools. A friendly very personable guy. May he rest in peace, Donovan Johnson, formerly with Edina Schools
Terry Kehoe
August 27, 2012
I knew Steve when I was with the Fire Department. He was not only a good "cop", but he was really a neat person. He will be missed by all. Our thoughts and prayers are with his personal and extended family.
Mark Haugh
August 27, 2012
Steve was one of my best friends and my next door neighbor when I was a kid. We re-connected my freshman year at St. Thomas when we lived in the same dorm. My sincerest condolences to his loved ones. He was a great guy.
Steve Long
August 27, 2012
Steve was my best childhood friend, grade school through high school...He was loyal, honest, trustworthy, kind, and I will always remember him and cherish our time together. My prayers and thoughts go out to his wonderful wife Caroline, his daughter Shannon, and his entire loving family.
Diane Julien
August 27, 2012
As a retired employee of the City of Edina, I can say that the City has lost a fine employee. My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time.
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