Richard James Strong, 88, of Traverse City passed away peacefully at home with his loving family at his side on Saturday, February 26, 2022.

Richard was born on March 10, 1933 in Kalamazoo, MI to the late James and Celia (Hahn) Strong. He married the love of his life, Sondra Lee Taylor on September 3, 1955 also in Kalamazoo at the Kanley Chapel at Western Michigan University. After residing in Kalamazoo, Utica, and Lapeer, they moved to the Traverse City area in 1970. Together they lovingly raised two daughters, Jane and Julie.

Honorably, Richard served our Country in the United States Marines from 1952-1955 during the Korean War.

Richard started his career as a teacher. He went on to work for Michigan State University Extension serving as a 4-H Agent for 26 years and as County Extension Director of the five county area for 10.

He was a member of Kiwanis, the Masonic Lodge of Lapeer and a member at Central United Methodist Church.

In his spare time he enjoyed the outdoor, nature, landscaping, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. Richard was a wonderful man who's smile, gentle heart, and generosity will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Richard is survived by his daughters, Jane (Dan) Kloosterman of Traverse City, Julie (Arola Raffler) Strong of Kalamzaoo; grandchildren,Taylor (Katy) Kloosterman and Sarah Kloosterman; great-grandsons Levi and Everett; his sister-in-law, Sally (Robert) Presutti; also by special friend, Dorothy Vanderklipp.

Richard is preceded in death by his parents, his wife of 58 wonderful years Sondra, and his siblings Beverly Bingham, and Neil Strong.

A Memorial Service with full Military Honors will take place at 2pm on Friday, March 18, 2022 at The Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home with a visitation held one hour prior. Pastor Chris Lane will officiate. Interment will take place at a later time in the Columbarium at Central United Methodist Church next to his beloved Wife. Memorial contributions may be directed to Michigan 4-H Foundation, Heartland Hospice or Central United Methodist Church. Kindly share thoughts and memories with Richard's family atwww.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.