Walter "Wally" Stromquist

Age 84 of Wilmington, Illinois, formerly of Chicago and Richton Park, Illinois, died peacefully on Saturday, December 7, 2024 at his home.

Born July 4, 1940 in Chicago, Walter William was a son of Carl and Frances (Schuricht) Stromquist. He was raised and educated in Chicago and graduated from Manley Vocational High School with the Class of 1958. Wally then served in the United States Army from 1958 until his honorable discharge in 1962. On November 9, 1963, he married Patricia Gricus in Chicago, with whom he would share 61 years of marriage. Wally worked as an electrician with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local Union 134 in Chicago, working diligently to provide for his family for 25 years until retirement in 2005. 

He was a member of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Wilmington where he was a member of the Father George Kuzma Knights of Columbus Council #11149. With his free time, Wally enjoyed using his talents and creativity to make many things through woodworking. He was also a die hard Chicago White Sox fan, but he was the biggest fan of his grandchildren. Wally was a proud grandfather who made it to every baseball game, dance recitals, or concerts that his grandchildren participated in. He was a true family man, whose faith and strong work ethic were important to him, and he was blessed to have the love of his wife, children and grandchildren, and any who were lucky enough to be called a friend.

Survivors include his wife, Pat Stromquist of Wilmington, and his children: Theresa Solick and Cynthia Stromquist, both of Bourbonnais, Illinois, and Eric (Holly) Stromquist of St. John, Indiana; and four grandchildren: Danielle Solick of Bradley, Illinois, Nicole Solick of Bourbonnais, Illinois, and Nathan and Owen Stromquist, both of St. John, Indiana.

Wally was preceded in death by his parents and one grandson, Jason Solick.

A private Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated, and Wally will be laid to rest at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Illinois with Full Military Honors.

Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Wally's memory to St. Rose Catholic Church, the Wilmington Fire Department, or to Uplifted Care Hospice.

Family and friends are encouraged to sign the online guest book, upload photographs, and share Wally's memorial page via social media.

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory in Wilmington (815) 476-2181.