William J. "Bill" Strickler Jr.

Bill Strickler, as he was known to family and friends, died Monday, July 30, 2001. He grew up in Pennsylvania and was educated at Oregon State College, He did post graduate study at Rollins College and the University of Florida. During WWII, he was a Signal Corp team leader in the Asiatic-Pacific campaign. He worked at Chase Aircraft, Beech Aircraft, General Electric and Martin-Marietta. After he moved to Orlando in 1960, Bill was a Design Specialist in the development of the first U.S. atomic re-entry vehicles. While at Martin-Marietta he was a Design Manager and Advanced System Specialist for missile and electronic systems. In 1969 he started his own business located in south Orlando, known over the last thirty years as Orlando TV Company, Orlando Electronics, Commodore Computer Center and, eventually, Computer Center of Orlando, Inc. He was honored by the Society of Aeronautical Weight Engineers. He moved to Tallahassee in 1998 so his wife could attend FSU College of Law. Bill became very active in legislative activities and advocated on behalf of senior citizens as the Co-Chairman of the AARP Northern Chapter and Chair of the Capitol City Task Force for the Silver Haired Legislature. Bill was admired by those who knew him for his integrity and concern for others. Bill is survived by his wife Raylene; sons, William J. Strickler, III, and Joshua Huls; daughters, Sharon S. Sanchez and Summer Strickler; grandsons, Douglas J. Strickler, Ron W. Allen, Rylan Sanchez, Ross Sanchez, and Rendall Sanchez; grandaughters, Beth and Joy Strickler. Service will be held at St. Mary of the Angels Episcopal Church, 6316 Matchett Road, located in Pine Castle, at 5 PM, on August 5th, conducted by Fr. Arthur Dasher. Those wishing to honor Bill are requested to make contributions to: Edgewood Boys Ranch or the House of Hope.