Dewey Eugene “Duke” Strickmaker, 76, of Dover passed away on Thursday, February 23, 2023, at Cleveland Clinic following an extended illness.
Born in Dover on November 14, 1946, he was the son of the late Eugene and Ruth (Forstrom) Strickmaker. He was also preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Albert Kurtz.
Duke graduated from Dover High School with the class of 1965. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Salem College in 1974. He later received his master’s degree in education from the University of Dayton. He became a well-known special education teacher at Dover, where he taught for over 20 years. He also taught at Starlight School and Waynedale. Though Duke never had any children of his own, he always referred to his “special students” as his kids.
Football was always a huge part of his life, from playing in high school and later becoming an assistant football coach at Dover from 1979-1986. He also loved watching it on TV.
Duke was known to be full of energy. He was often seen riding his bike around town, conversing with neighbors, visiting the library, working out at the YMCA, or sitting at the square of Dover with his buddies. He had a warm smile, and kind words for everyone that he came across.
He leaves behind his siblings; Karen Kurtz of Canton (formerly of Dover,) Doug (Shari) Strickmaker of Dover, and Robin (Edward) Sexton of Bolivar; along with several nieces and nephews.
Duke and his siblings have always had a close relationship, which sustained them through the years. His absence will leave a hole in their lives. Each month, all of the siblings would get together for lunch at the Elks. He enjoyed traveling with his sister, Karen, on bus tours. His brother, Doug, was a constant friend his entire life and an attentive caretaker in later years. His baby sister, Robin, was dear to him, and it was always important to see her well cared for over the years. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
In honoring Duke’s wishes, cremation has been entrusted with the Toland-Herzig Funeral Home & Crematory of Dover. There will not be any public calling hours or services. To sign an online guestbook for Duke, visit the obituary link on the funeral home’s website.
Duke loved the Dover Public Library. His family suggests that memorial contributions be made there in his memory. Dover Public Library, 525 N. Walnut St., Dover, Ohio 44622.
Toland-Herzig Funeral Homes & Crematory
803 North Wooster Avenue
Dover, Ohio 44622
330-343-6132
www.tolandherzig.com
To send flowers to the family of Dewey, please visit our floral store.