James Strek

James William Strek “Jim” “Jimmy”, passed over December 8, 2023 while listening to the radio with his dog, Joe, at his side.  It was a peaceful end to a life well lived.

Jim was born June 3, 1953 to Priscilla and Ronald Strek.  He graduated from Wausau Senior High School and continued his education at UW-Eau Claire.  There, he earned a degree in Special Education.  Jim proceeded to work on a master’s degree.  He loved working with children who had handicaps, and was successful with those children, their parents, and fellow educators.  His recognition was the joy he saw in the eyes of children.

Jimmy was an “antiquer”, he loved going antiquing, a gardener, and a cookie-maker.  His home was a museum of glassware, furniture, and clocks.  His garden flourished with tomato plants and colorful flowers.  From an early age, his mom called him her little “Chef Boyardee” as he stood on a stool stirring the pot.  Jimmy was mom’s sous chef in cooking and baking cakes and cookies.  That love of cooking carried through life.

As time passed, Jim’s body could no longer do the things he loved, so he left us.  He left a family who loved him; Bruce Poehnlein, a partner of 17 years, a son, Jesse Strek Tilt, a sister, Peggy Strek-Cabot, a brother, Steve (Sue) Strek, cousins and nieces and nephews.  As we grieve our loss, we know Jimmy had a wonderful reunion with his mom and dad, brother, Gilbert, aunts, uncles and his pups.  It must have been a grand ole gathering as God reached out his hands and made Jimmy whole again.

Jimmy was our treasure.  We will miss him.

Memorial service will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, December 16, 2023 at Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 1302 Sixth Street, Wausau.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com