Bruce Strohacker , 80, of Apple River, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on February 6 ^th , 2022. He passed at home, peacefully, surrounded by his family (due to illness not COVID related). Bruce was born in Freeport, Illinois to the late John and Vivian (Borchers) Strohacker on March 7 ^th , 1941. In his early life, Bruce was an avid sports player. He loved to play football, basketball, track, baseball, and he boxed, but playing softball with his brothers, Romie (Helen Winters) Strohacker and Larry (Bobbie) Strohacker was his favorite.

Bruce served in the U.S. Military as an office clerk in the Marine Corps. He was stationed in California and later in Hawaii. He loved to reminisce about the beautiful scenery he took in while he was there. When he was discharged, following in his dad's footsteps, he joined the Operating Engineers and worked for Beloit Pipe and Dredge. He was very proud of his handywork and would tell anyone who would listen. After early retirement, Bruce went on to be a jack of all trades. He built houses, hauled livestock, raised pure bred Shorthorns through Strohacres, managed a landscape company, and best of all spent lots of time with his family.

Bruce married the love of his life, Pam (Turner) Strohacker, on October 5 ^th , 1963. Together they raised two wonderful men, Barry (Diane) Strohacker and Heath (Cortney) Strohacker. He considered himself blessed to have four beautiful grandchildren, Lucas, Evan, Savannah (Mike), and Wyatt. Along with two great-grandchildren, Everett and Addison. It was Bruce's greatest joy to teach his family everything he knew. Whether that was fishing, hunting, skipping rocks, or playing cards, he was always a great, patient teacher. Bruce's wonderful sense of humor and mischievous smirk will live on in his family, as well as his love and legacy.

Bruce was always seeking a new adventure. From getting his pilot's license, to rock jumping, to snowmobiling in The North Woods, there was never a thrill too large. To his friends, Bruce was known as "Bruce Almighty" because there was simply nothing he wouldn't' take on. Bruce volunteered his time as a Trustee of the Apple River Fire Department and enthusiastically attended Crossroads Community Church. Although Bruce was always up for a challenge, or traveling, what he loved the most was spending time at his home, in Apple River, with his family.

We ask you to join us for a celebration of life in the place he loved most. The celebration will be held for Bruce on June 18 ^th , 2022 beginning at 11am - 2pm at their home located at 4245 N . Scout Camp Rd Apple River.  RSVP and/or questions can be directed to 815-901-5524. The family invites everyone who Bruce knew and loved to celebrate this special man with them. Please inquire with the family for more information on the service.

In leu of flowers, please send donations to The Bruce Strohacker Memorial Fund. Condolences may be shared at www.walkermortuary.com.