Donald "Donnie" C. Strieder

Donald "Donnie" C. Strieder, 87, of Metamora, IL, passed into eternal life on Sunday, November 30, 2025, reunited with his beloved wife of more than 64 years, LaVonne "Bonnie" Strieder.

Born on February 14, 1938, Donnie lived a life defined by devotion to his faith, his family, his community, and to serving others in every way he could.

On July 15, 1961, he married the love of his life, Bonnie Hutt. Their marriage was a true and lasting partnership. Together, they built a rich life grounded in faith, compassion, and a shared commitment to giving generously of themselves.

A lifelong Catholic, Donnie lived his faith through action. He was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus and a steadfast supporter of his parish communities throughout his life. His beliefs guided not only how he prayed, but how he lived—with humility, gratitude, and a servant's heart.

Donnie was initiated into Carpenters Union Local 237 on January 16, 1958, beginning a long and proud career as a skilled carpenter. He approached his craft with care, precision, and pride, leaving behind a legacy built not only in wood but in the relationships and community his work supported.

Donnie also served honorably in the United States Army as a military police officer.

A dedicated blood and plasma donor, Donnie was inducted into the National Blood Donor Hall of Fame in 2009, recognized for his extraordinary commitment to saving lives. He also devoted countless hours to raising money for St. Jude’s Children's Research Hospital—collecting cans and pop tabs, handcrafting wooden Christmas trees and name tags for the children, and building intricate rocking horses and motorcycles for charity auctions. When asked why he did it, he always said, "It's for the kids."

Donnie was an avid bowler and fisher. We’ll know when it thunders, surely it’s him bowling with God, and when the waters are still, he’s casting a line in Heaven. Donnie lived with a generosity that asked for nothing in return. He led by example—showing what it meant to be selfless, hardworking, loyal, and kind. His giving spirit touched countless lives and created a legacy of service that will continue long beyond his years.

He is survived by his son, Jeffery; his beloved canine companion, Sadie; his brothers, Joe and George Strieder; his sisters, Mary (Chuck) Brandenburg, Carole Gendron, and Kathy Bachman; and his brother-in-law, Glenn Rauh, as well as numerous nieces and nephews who adored him.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Bonnie; his parents, George and Lela (Ehringer) Strieder Sr.; his siblings, Ken Strieder and Shirley Scurto; his brothers-in-law, Sam Scurto and Roger Bachman; and his sisters-in-law, Edna DeMoss, Sharon Rauh, and Jackie Girbert.

Donnie will be remembered for his devotion to faith, his steady and generous heart, and the countless ways he quietly made the world better. He leaves behind an enduring legacy of love, craftsmanship, service, and deep compassion—one that will remain in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, December 15, 2025 at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church with Monsignor Jason Gray officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to his mass. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Metamora. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, ALSAC, 4722 North Sheridan Road, Peoria, IL 61614. Online condolences at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.