Robert Donald Stricker, fondly known as Don, was born on September 9, 1927, in Cincinnati, Ohio. He was the beloved son of Gertrude and Aloysius Stricker, and brother to his older sister, Jackie, and younger brother, Dave.
Don attended Saint Margaret's Grade School, where he played the trumpet in the school band. He then went on to Purcell High School, balancing his studies with part-time work as a tree surgeon and a caddy at Kenwood Country Club, where he discovered his love for golf.
In 1945, upon graduating from Purcell, Don enlisted into the Air Force, proudly serving his country during the end of World War II, and through 1947. After returning from service, he pursued a career in the electrical trade, completing the electrician apprenticeship program and becoming a journeyman electrician.
In 1949, Don married his high school sweetheart, Mary Ellen Aubrey. The couple celebrated their honeymoon in Niagara Falls, NY, marking the beginning of a loving and adventurous life together. Don and Mary Ellen raised six children: Chris (Jack) Haller, Donna (Tom) Collins, Tim (Diane) Stricker, Rob (Debbie) Stricker, Joe (Nan) Stricker, and Mary Jo (Ken) Armacost. Throughout their parenting journey, they shared a passion for travel, frequently embarking on camping trips with their children, often to their favorite destination—the beach.
In 1980, Don and Mary Ellen purchased a place in Melbourne Beach, FL, which became the family's cherished vacation spot. After retiring in 1990 as an IBEW pensioner, Don and Mary Ellen made Melbourne Beach their permanent residence.
Don's love for his family was unparalleled, and he found much joy in spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was also passionate about golfing and travel, and he enjoyed a relaxing scotch nightcap from time to time.
Don is survived by his six children, twelve grandchildren, and eleven great-grandchildren, with one more due to arrive on June 12th. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
May his soul rest in peace, and may his family find comfort in the beautiful moments they shared with him.
Visitation is on Friday, April 11th, from 9:30am – 10:30am, at Guardian Angels Church. Mass of Christian Burial immediately following at 10:30am.
In lieu of sending flowers, please consider making a memorial donation to the Wounded Warrior Project at:
https://communityfundraising.woundedwarriorproject.org/campaign/In-Memory-of-Robert--Don--Stricker
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