Jeffrey Thomas Strickland

Jeffrey Thomas Strickland of Saint Charles, Missouri, passed away at the age of 59 on Monday, July 26, 2021.  Loving husband of Laurie Strickland (nee Kirchoff); beloved son of Lois “Lou” Andrew and the late John “Jack” Strickland; devoted father of Bobby (Arielle) Strickland, Tyler Strickland, Jillian Strickland, and Jared Strickland; dearest brother of Laura (Chris) Hagan, Steve (Jen) Strickland, and Dana (Blake) Buchholtz.  Jeff is also survived by his dear stepmother, Audrey “Jeanie” Strickland.

Jeff was a State Farm agent for more than 33 years in St. Charles, and he was probably even more popular than Jake!  And, like a good neighbor, Jeff was always there to help a friend, co-worker, or even a stranger.  Countless people around town knew of his kind nature, honest character, and how he could be relied upon always.  He was a trusted mentor and friend to young agents as they started their career.  They looked up to him for guidance and regarded him as a leader in the State Farm community.  His customers trusted him and considered him a friend who was always available to help.  He sponsored countless golf tournaments, trivia nights, and raffles to support charities throughout the community.

For everyone who knew Jeff, the phrase, “He never knew a stranger,” couldn’t be more true.  Just about everyone in St. Charles knew Jeff, and his family.  They knew him to be the most generous, caring, and all-around fun guy.  He loved his family more than anything; he was the most dedicated and loving husband and father.

With a heart of gold, Jeff truly cared for everyone he knew, no matter how long he knew them.  He was humble of heart.  He was dedicated to making sure everyone felt welcome and knew that they mattered.  He has helped many community organizations, but his true passion for service has been to Community Living, Inc.  He devoted many hours to Community Living, Inc. as a board member for more than 22 years.  He was always available to organize events like The Big Kahuna, the annual golf tournament, and Legacy Ball.  He always took time to get to know the staff, clients, and their families so he could truly serve the organization.

Jeff was generous with his time and friendship, and he could always be counted on to be there.  He was involved with the Cub Scouts as a leader for his sons’ den for 16 years.  The campouts he helped organize and the Blue and Gold banquets were always a blast.  He had a great time encouraging the boys to get involved.  They still talk about his encouragement, how much fun they had, and his influence on their lives.

Jeff had a passion for music, and he met his true love while singing with The Patt Holt singers.  He had a wonderful voice and loved to sing, and he usually had music playing throughout their home.  He looked forward to friends coming over with their instruments to play and sing together, and he would tell you he played a mean mandolin!  Jeff always made time to attend his kids’ musical events, and he was the one clapping the loudest.

Jeff loved planning events and parties, and he made sure they were executed well.  He could be counted on for his widespread imagination and organizational skills to ensure everyone had a great time.  He enjoyed entertaining with his family, and whether you attended Fall Festival, Christmas Tree Day, Legacy Ball wine tasting, a Cardinal watch party, or just a spontaneous porch party, Jeff made sure your glass was never half-empty, and everyone felt welcome and included.

As a sports fan, Jeff was the ultimate in St. Louis Baseball Cardinals, and he had so much memorabilia he could have opened his own gift shop.  He even had a personalized license plate for the number of times the Cardinals won the World Series; it read 1ST-11X.  He attended as many games as possible with family and friends, and when he wasn’t able to be at the stadium he was watching on TV. His love for baseball led him to create the fantasy “Bambalance League” where he served as “Commissioner” for over 35 years.

Jeff loved to travel, and he and Laurie enjoyed many trips together, with family, and their State Farm friends.  Some of his favorite places to travel included Colorado, Oregon, Alaska, and Hawaii, and they made several trips to Europe.

His true passion was the farm where he loved to deer hunt, relax, and spend time with family and friends.     He often said the farm was his favorite place to be.  He is now resting peacefully in the arms of his Savior, and we’re sure he is seeing some unbelievable sights.  Now, ain’t that somethin’!

Jeff was loved by so many and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.  Memorial contributions may be made in Jeff’s name to Community Living, Inc.

Baue Funeral Homes is currently following CDC recommendations regarding mask and social distancing policies.