Don was born in Pennsylvania the second child of Kenneth Strickler and Pearl Russell. He spent his early childhood there with his sisters and brother: Ruth, Dora, Ted, Peggy and Annette . After moving to Southern California, Kenneth married Marjory Schler where Roy, Marie, Fritz, Jackie, Julie, and Kim joined the clan. Don’s mother married Pop Pete Summers who had twelve grown children making 24 in all. Needless to say we did not exchange Christmas gifts.
After graduating from high school, Don served in the Army during Korean war. Yes he was on the front line, under fire several times.
Shortly after his discharge Don met Evelyn as she poured his coffee in a restaurant in Challis, Idaho. Three months later on May 29, 1953 they were united in marriage. Even though they recently celebrated their 65th anniversary, we would not recommend such a short courtship. Their deep love and God's glue held them together.
Their union was blessed with six children, James Donald the second, who preceded his father in death; Dawn Morrison - husband Ron, Brad - wife June Watson, Scott - wife Lynette Milam, Anne Strickler/Head, and Beryl Forney - husband Chris.
New Years Eve 1960 Don received Jesus Christ as his personal Savior who died on the cross to forgive our sins. This was the most important decision of Don’s life. With the Holy Spirit living in him, God changed him into the man we remember today.
Don and Evelyn lived many places and did many things but his main occupation was a carpenter. One of the highlights was sharing Jesus among the Navajo for ten years. His greatest joy was studying God's Word and sharing it with others.
Don became the patriarch and prayer warrior of six children, thirteen grandchildren and twenty-four great grandchildren. Each of them and their spouses have been a blessed gift from God. One of the family’s favorite memories is having Don read the Christmas story from the Bible on Christmas Eve before opening presents. He always made sure the true reason for Christmas was front and foremost.
Don loved and served his God, family, church and his country. From the time he was saved, Don attended and took his family to church, serving in many capacities including leadership; not the least of which was his love and service to Grace Church of Deer Park. He fought the good fight, completing the coarse and finished well. All glory belongs to Almighty GOD.
On July 12 just before his 89th birthday with Evelyn at his side, Don left his wasted body behind entering his final home, his body made perfect by the blood of Jesus and wrapped in the robe of righteousness.
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