Bryan Thomas Strathman

Bryan (Brian) Thomas Strathman, of Gurnee, IL, passed away at home on Sunday, May 23, 2021 at the age of 53 with family close by. His 2 year battle with cancer showed his courage as he faced each new challenge with humor and staunch determination to beat it. Despite the constant changing game plans and moving goal posts, Bryan came out a hero and kept fighting until the end.

Devoted, loving and committed husband to Kathy (nee Rietz) Strathman, married June 12, 1993. Proud and loving father of Sarah Evelyn (23), Kaitlyn Elizabeth (18), and Kimberly Gail (15). Best friend of sister, Lori (Jim) Reece. Cherished by his many aunts, uncles, cousins, in-laws, nephews, nieces, and other family.

He was preceded in death by his parents John and Gail (nee McConnell) Strathman.

To know Bryan is to know a simple, genuine, “what you see is what you get” kind of guy.

Bryan was born and raised in Lafayette, Indiana where he had wonderful memories of carefree days with friends, working on cars with his dad, visiting the Indy 500, dinners at his Grandma’s, and golf with his Grandad. He excelled at cross country and basketball. Life was simple.

Bryan was a proud graduate of Purdue University where he met the love of his life, Kathy. Their dates mostly consisted of competitive games with fun trash talking, usually around midnight after Bryan got off of work. Bryan and Kathy were married June 12, 1993.

Together, they had three beautiful girls – Sarah, Katie, and Kimmy, who were his pride and joy. Bryan lived for his girls, and he fought hard for his girls until his last breath. He loved all animals and was devoted to their family dogs Boston, Max, and Hooper. If he wasn’t outside taking care of his yard, or cheering the girls on at an event, he was on the couch playing games on his phone while watching detective shows with Kathy.

Bryan was all about his relationships – with Kathy, his girls, family, and friends. His genuine interest of what was happening in your life made you feel as if you were the most important person he knew. Bryan always enjoyed his conversations with others. His kindness, generosity, and humor were appreciated by all. Although, Kathy never did understand many of his jokes. He enjoyed the bonfires with the neighborhood family and holiday gatherings. He looked forward to his weekly phone conversations on his way home from work with his sister Lori, and buddies John and Scott. Bryan was a giving, friendly man who never met a stranger. If you were lucky to know him, he would greet you with a smile and a “Hey there, my friend.” He had a special way of making an ordinary time with friends feel extraordinary with his conversations, quick wit and well-timed one-liners.

The influence Bryan had on his family and friends will be with them forever.

Memorial Visitation will be held Saturday, May 29 from 3-7 PM at Marsh Funeral Home, 305 N Cemetery Rd, Gurnee. A memorial service will close the evening at 7 PM.

In celebration of Bryan, please wear your favorite hoodie and shorts.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to either CaringBridge (caringbridge.org) or Tarzan’s Safe Haven (pet shelter in Des Plaines, IL).

For funeral info: MarshFuneralHome.com or 847-336-0127.