Richard "Rick" Strokes

Richard “Rick” Strokes left this life unexpectedly and far too early on Thursday, August 12, at the age of 52. Born on July 31, 1969 to Ronald and Judy Strokes, Rick lived in Lake Geneva throughout his childhood, graduating from Badger High School in 1987 where he was on the swim team and did competitive diving.

He attended Marquette University, and spent his sophomore year at the Institute for American Studies in Aix-en-Provence, France. He graduated in 1991 with a Bachelor of Arts and was fluent in French.

Rick was an adventurer at heart and loved to travel. He was a consummate guide, knowing the best places to visit, stay or eat in cities all over the world. He enjoyed sharing trips with family and friends and had even begun a tradition of taking each of his nieces and nephews to their destination of choice during their senior year.

One of his favorite places in the world, though, was at the family cabin in Minocqua which he would often visit, enjoying the serenity of the lake and a good prime rib at a supper club. Rick already had plans to spend part of his retirement there.

A quick wit with a sharp tongue, he always had fun “mixing it up” with family and always made us laugh. He was a generous son, brother and uncle and was always thoughtful in his giving.

Rick has been reunited with his dad, Ron, in heaven. Those who remain to miss him include his mother, Judy, and step-father Stephen  Miller as well as big sisters Cheryl (Wayne) Petrie and Michelle (Matthew) Kinney and his nieces and nephews—Cassie (Jason) Farris, Nicole, Michael, Sydney, Emily, Nicholas, Jaxton, Emery and Landry—and many friends.

His family will say good-bye to Rick at a private graveside service next week but will have a celebration of his life at a future date. Donations can be made in Rick’s honor to Covenant Harbor Bible Camp in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin for improvements to its Boat House, a spot near and dear to Rick’s heart.

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Derrick Funeral Home of Lake Geneva is honored to be assisting Rick's family.

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