Burt Strike

Burton Charles Strike, of Newton, passed away peacefully with family by his side at the age of 88 on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at Park Centre in Newton.

Burt was born on August 5, 1937, in Nashua, Iowa, the son of Hollis and Avis (Stuelke) Strike. He graduated from Nashua High School in 1955. He continued his education at Iowa State Teachers College (now the University of Northern Iowa) in Cedar Falls, where he majored in Social Studies and minored in Physical Education. Burt later earned his master's degree in education from Drake University.

On June 22, 1957, Burt was united in marriage to Marlis Dickman at St. Michael Catholic Church in Nashua, Iowa. To this union, three children were born: Nancy, Jeff, and Scott.

Following his graduation from college, Burt began his teaching career in Newton in 1959, a career that ultimately spanned 40 years. He initially taught American History and later developed and taught an elective course titled Introduction to Social Problems, a favorite among many students. Burt began teaching at Central Junior High School and, following its closure in 1983, continued his career at Newton Senior High School, retiring in 1999.

In addition to teaching, Burt dedicated many years to coaching at both the junior and senior high levels, including football, basketball, track, and baseball. He was actively involved in leading Central's student council and founded a group known as the "Strike Family Players," which presented historical plays and Christmas programs. Burt was active in his church and a member of the Knights of Columbus. He enjoyed golfing, fishing, and spending time with his family and friends.

Those left to cherish Burt's memory include his wife, Marlis Strike of Newton; son Jeff (Lori) Strike of Newton; daughter-in-law Joni Strike of Maumelle, Arkansas; grandchildren CJ (Roxanne) Strike of Ames, Jarid (Courtney) Strike of Bondurant, Reagan (Josh) Harrell of Greenbrier, Arkansas, Jason (Lacey) White of Centerville, and Cheryl (Zach) Finch of Centerville; great-grandchildren Caiden Strike, Calen Strike, Quinn Harrell, Jaxon Harrell, Liam White, Ella White, Dylan Finch, Knox Finch, and Crew Finch; sister Marilyn Strike of Mason City; and brother Marvin (Marge) Strike of Waukon.

Burt was preceded in death by his parents, Hollis and Avis Strike; his sister, Beverly Bennett; his son, Scott Strike; and his daughter, Nancy White.

A funeral Mass for Burt will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, January 12, 2026, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Newton. The family will greet guests during a time of visitation prior to the Mass from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. Following the committal service at Sacred Heart Cemetery, there will be coffee and cookies at the church in McCann Center.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Burt's honor to Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Newton or to NHS Activities Department (please note "In memory of Burt Strike" in the memo line of checks). These may be brought to the funeral or dropped off at Pence-Reese Funeral Home.