Kip W. Strode

 

Kip Wayne Strode, a beloved member of the community, passed away peacefully on August 7th, 2023, at his home in Hugo, Colorado. He was born on April 16th, 1968, to Norma Jaques and Don Strode in Hugo.

Kip had a bright and accomplished life. He graduated from Limon High School in 1986 and went on to become a dedicated member of the crew that opened the Colorado Department of Corrections in Limon in 1992. This work became Kip's true passion, and he considered his co-workers as his family. After many years of dedicated service, Kip retired from the Buena Vista Facility on January 16th, 2019, with the rank of lieutenant.

Throughout his life, Kip cherished his relationships with his loved ones. He was first married to Jane Sellon, and together they welcomed two daughters into the world - Shealyn and Shandra. Later on, Kip found love again with his second wife Lori Baumann. Kip had a special affection for his daughters, affectionately referring to Shandra as "Shandy Sue" and Shealyn as "Princess" or "Baby Doll."

Kip was a natural storyteller and had a wide range of interests and hobbies. He enjoyed martial arts, firearms, fishing, hiking, and spending time outdoors at Twin Lakes where he made countless cherished memories. Kip also had a passion for reading and particularly admired the works of Marty Robbins, a country music artist. Cooking was considered his love language, but passing it down and teaching his daughters made it even more prideful for him, and of course embraced all things cowboy.

As part of his vibrant personality, Kip was known for sharing words of wisdom with those around him. Two quotes that were frequently heard from him were: "What's done is done; what are we going to do about it?" And another piece of advice he imparted to his daughters: "Stay humble: because no matter who you are or where you go, there is always someone bigger, better and badder than you.”

Above all else, Kip will be remembered for his love for his family. He was always ready to dance, sing karaoke, and write songs to tease his daughters and granddaughters. His love for them knew no bounds.

Kip leaves behind a multitude of treasured memories in the hearts of those who knew him. He is survived by his mother Norma Strode (Nan), his daughter Shealyn Strode and her partner Andy Stahn along with their daughters Maddison and Makyla Stahn. He is also survived by his daughter Shandra Strode and her children Lyric, Wynter, and Harlow. Additionally, he is survived by Jane Strode, Lori Baumann, and numerous other relatives and friends.

Kip is preceded in death by his paternal Grandparents Margarite Verhoff (Strode) Stanley Strode, maternal Grandparents Wilburn Jaques and Adelia  Kenny(Jaques) as well as his Father Don Strode.

As we mourn the loss of Kip Wayne Strode, let us also celebrate the remarkable life he lived. May his memory continue to inspire us all to live with passion, love wholeheartedly, and embrace the things that bring us joy.

Please join us for a Celebration of Life and Reception on September 2nd, 2023 at 1PM at the Hugo Rail Depot located at 675 4th Street, Hugo Colorado 80821.