Kaye A. Strickler, 79, of Decatur, IN, passed away at her son’s residence on Wednesday, October 30, 2024. She was born in Fort Wayne, IN, on March 2, 1945, the daughter of the late Eldor R. “Al” Nern and Ruth L. (Monnier) Nern. On May 7, 1975, she married Don E. Strickler, who preceded her in death on March 24, 2017 after 42 years of marriage.
She was a 1963 graduate of Decatur High School. Throughout her life, she had worked at United Telephone Company, Shaffer Wholesale, Central Soya (Bunge), and Hallmark where she loved helping people find the perfect greeting cards and ornaments.
Kaye was a member of the Loyal Order of Moose Adams Lodge 1311 and the American Legion Adams Post 43 Ladies Auxiliary.
She was known as “Aunt Kaye” or “Grandma Kaye” to many and was always quick to give a compliment. She loved to socialize and to watch college basketball, especially the Indiana Hoosiers. She will always be known for her famous line, “Are you wit me or genst me?” Many people will also remember her famous finger pointing dance moves, joyful laughter, and generous heart.
She is survived by her son, Ron (Beth) Bedwell of Decatur; 3 granddaughters, Ashley (Justin) Sieb of Richmond, Sarah (William) Gray, Brittney (Glen) Hitchcock both of Decatur; 7 great grandchildren, Cooper Sieb, Braxen Gray, Landen Gray, Nolen Gray, Hayden Bedwell, Daxten Hitchcock, Maddux Hitchcock; a brother Rick (Sally) Nern; a sister, Sherry Parrish; a brother-in-law, Les Gerig all of Decatur; and many close family members and friends.
She was preceded in death by a sister, Vicki Gerig and a brother-in-law, Merv Parrish.
Visitation will be held from 12:00 – 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 2, 2024, at Haggard-Hirschy and Zelt Funeral Home, with a time of remembrance and storytelling at 3:00 p.m. Feel free to come dressed in your favorite sports team attire, especially if you root for the IU Hoosiers. Family and friends will gather at the Moose Lodge following the service.
Memorials may be made to the Moose Lodge 1311 or to the American Legion Post 43.
Arrangements were entrusted to Haggard-Hirschy & Zelt Funeral Home.
About the Author
