Myrna F. Stricker, 87, of Traverse City, passed away peacefully at Country Pleasures on April 22, 2026.

Myrna was born on May 28, 1938, in Detroit to the late Achille and Virginia Zurk (LaVictor) Melone. She graduated from Highland Park High School and continued her education at Highland Park General Hospital School of Nursing, graduating in 1959.

On May 28, 1960, she married Wayne T. Stricker at St. Bartholomew Catholic Church in Highland Park, Michigan. Together, they lovingly raised two children, David and Michelle.

Myrna dedicated her life to caring for others, both professionally and personally. She began her nursing career at Highland Park General Hospital and continued at Munson Medical Center, Thirlby Clinic, and Traverse City State Hospital, where she retired in 1989 as a Regional Supervisor. Later in life, she also sold Mary Kay cosmetics, something she truly enjoyed.

She was a devoted Catholic and a beloved parishioner of St. Patrick Catholic Church since 1996. She was honored as Woman of the Year in 2000, a reflection of her dedication to serving others. In her free time, she enjoyed traveling, flower arranging, gardening, scrapbooking, and volunteering at church.

Myrna was funny, quick-witted, a little spicy, and wonderfully strong. She knew what she wanted, said what she meant, and was often the one everyone turned to when something needed to be handled. Though she may have been small in stature, she was truly “tiny but mighty”—and as many would say, perfectly fun-sized.

More than anything, she was a devoted mom, grandma, and friend. She showed up for people—emotionally, physically, however she was needed—always ready to care for those around her. If you needed her, she was there.

In her later years, especially, time spent together became everything—long talks, laughter, and puzzle time that turned into some of the most cherished memories. She wasn’t just a mom, but a best friend.

She faced her health challenges with quiet strength and dignity, never complaining and never letting her burdens become anyone else’s. It is a strength that will always be deeply admired.

Myrna was preceded in death by her husband, Wayne; her parents; and her brother, Edward.

She is survived by her son, David (Cherie) Stricker of Sheridan, WY; her daughter, Michelle Strait of Traverse City, MI; grandchildren Danielle, Jessica, Corey, Sara; great-grandchildren Bradyn, Cora, Asher, Graham, and Noah; along with many loving family members and friends.

We are at peace knowing she is onto her next chapter, but she will be missed beyond words.

Visitation will take place from 5–7 p.m. on Monday, April 27, 2026, at Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at St. Patrick Catholic Church, with visitation held one hour prior. Interment will take place on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at 1 p.m. at Oakwood Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the American Cancer Society or to St. Patrick Catholic Church for Mass intentions