Steven Dale Strickland

JULY 19, 1958-APRIL 24, 2012

Steven Strickland was born July 19, 1958 in Merced, CA. On April 24, 2012 after a long courageous valiant race Steven Strickland AKA “Buckwheat #44” took the checkered flag & is now a member of God’s racing team in the sky. Steve was a hard working devoted family man who always knew the value & worth of a true family. He faced life head on w/laughter, jokes, & optimism. When asked “How are you Buck?” he would reply “well I haven’t seen my face in the obituary today, so I guess I’m okay” & then he would let out his “Buck chuckle” w/his red cheeks smiling. Steve had a passion for many things. His family, especially his four grandbabies, friends, racing, fishing w/his buddy, Steve Treat. Steve also was the owner of USA Towing & Transport & when he wasn’t towing you would hardly see him w/out a wrench in his hand and his sidekick Richard Scott at his side. He was best known as an amazing mechanic who could fix anything. He has been an inspiration to multiple family members & many friends. A day would not go by w/out someone having to listen to one of his many crazy jokes. Steve had left each of us w/some type of memory that will last a lifetime. He leaves behind his soul mate & wife, Daina Strickland; daddy’s little girl, Tiffany Strickland; his cherished son, Joshua Strickland; his four grandchildren, Trevor, Shayleigh, R.J., Bradley, who were the apples of his eye; Mother, Joyce Gould Strickland; Father, James Strickland; Brothers, Bobby & Dennis Strickland; & sister Linda Gusdal all of Chewelah, WA. Steve also leaves behind many nieces & nephews; family members; friends; & his dearest friend, Steve Treat, who he is leaving it up to him to hook the big one for him. Forever and always in our hearts remembering the love and laughter we shared. Live, Love, Laugh and always put God first for you never know when it will be your last. Rest in Peace with our love surrounding you until we are together again. You will always be our HERO & the Wind Beneath Our Wings. A memorial Visitation will be held Saturday, May 5, 4pm-8pm at Stratford Evans. A Celebration of Life will be held on May 6, 11am-4pm at the Veteran’s Cove located at Yosemite Lake. As we all know Buck enjoyed good music & good food. Everyone come Celebrate with us & bring a special dish.

Arrangements are under the direction of Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home.