John Eric Stricklin
John Eric Stricklin, age 51 of Menomonie, died Tuesday, March 7, 2017 at the Neighbors of Dunn County with his family by his side.
John was born on May 3, 1965 in Fayetteville, NC. He was the son of John David and Patricia (O’Connor) Stricklin. John grew up mostly in Silver City, NM as his father was in the Army and moved quite often. After graduating high school, John joined the U.S. Navy. He was stationed in San Diego on the USS Juneau and did several trips to the Philippines. John was Honorably Discharged in 1989. John married Mary Huebner on December 21, 1986 in Milwaukee. After marriage they lived in San Diego for a short time. Shortly after being discharged from the Navy, John was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. John and Mary moved to Menomonie, where John remained the rest of his life.
John enjoyed karate, he was taught by Mr. Josh Zimmerman and he earned his black belt in his wheel chair. He was elected to the Martial Arts Hall of Fame for his karate accomplishments. John also liked getting tattoos, playing guitar and watching football, especially of the Packers. Most of all, John loved spending time with family and friends.
John is survived by his wife of 31 years; Mary, two children; John Michael “JJ” of Chippewa Falls and Amber Stricklin of Downing, one granddaughter; Alyciana Stricklin, his father; John David (Barsha) of Laguna Hills, CA, one brother; Michael of Austin, TX, one sister-in-law; Betty Hawkins of Menomonie, one brother-in-law; Jerry (Janet) Huebner of Ellsworth, other family and friends. He is preceded in death by his mother; Patricia.
Memorial Mass will be 11:00 AM Saturday, March 25, 2017 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Menomonie with Rev. James Kurzynski officiating. Burial will be in Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery in Elmwood at a later date. Visitation will be from 10:00 AM until the time of services at church on Saturday.
Rhiel Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Menomonie, is serving the family.