Herbert E. Strong Jr.

Herbert E. Strong Jr.

had an impactful presence across Indianapolis. Known for his passion for the community, Strong was often found leading Service Club, Army-Navy Club and Contemporary Club meetings, organizing the Riley Area Revitalization Program and perusing the aisles of his family business, Economy Plumbing Supply Co. Strong's commitment to Indianapolis was evident, and he left a lasting legacy on the city.

Born on Oct. 2, 1925 to the late Herbert E. Strong and Margaret Katherine Welch Strong, he was born and raised in Indianapolis. He attended Indianapolis Public Schools and graduated from Shortridge High School in 1943, when he also earned his ranking as an Eagle Scout. A graduate of Purdue University in 1946, Strong studied mechanical engineering and was also a member of Tau Beta Pi, Pi Tau Sigma and Lambda Chi Alpha. During his tenure as a Boilermaker, Strong served in the US Navy V-12 Program as an Ensign on the USS Columbia. After graduation, Strong was recalled to serve in the Korean War from 1951-1953 as a Lieutenant on USS Elkhorn and USS Kaskaskia.

Strong was actively engaged in the plumbing wholesale industry. Strong joined the ranks of the family business, Economy Plumbing Supply Co., in 1946, where he served as President from 1960 to 1998. Strong was a past president of the Indiana Association of Credit Management, the Central Wholesalers Association, the America Supply Association, and was a board member of the Central Indiana Better Business Bureau. After retirement, Strong remained involved in the business, continuing as director and consultant.

Strong served several years as president of the Nantucket Bay Condo Association and as a board member of the South Shore Condo Association at Lake Wawasee. He was a lifelong member of the Second Presbyterian Church of Indianapolis, where he served the church as an Elder and Deacon. Strong was also an active member of the Woodstock Country Club, Indianapolis Racquet Club and former member of the Columbia Club and the Skyline Club.

Strong passed peacefully in his home surrounded by love on June 24, 2015. He is survived by his wife, Ann Bowman Ruebeck Strong, son, John S. Strong (wife: Debbie), daughter, Elizabeth Ann (Betsy) Strong, stepsons, Dr. Christopher B. Ruebeck (wife: Lisa) and Dr. David F. Ruebeck (wife: Claire), and grandchildren, Stephen and Samantha Strong, and Hannah, Joshua and Noah Ruebeck.

Visitation is scheduled for Sunday, June 28, from 1 to 4 p.m. at Leppert Mortuary in Nora. Funeral services to be held Monday, June 29, at 2 p.m. at Second Presbyterian Church. Following the service he will be laid to rest at Crown Hill Cemetery. All are welcome to a Celebration of Life following the services at Woodstock Country Club from 4 to 7 p.m., Monday June 29. In lieu of flowers, please contribute to the Second Presbyterian Church Memorial Fund, 7700 N. Meridian St. Indianapolis, IN 46260.