Jerald “Jerry” Strawhacker, 82, Kokomo, passed away at 11:53 am Sunday, December 3, 2023, at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital in Kokomo. He was born June 17, 1941, in Galesburg, Illinois, the son of the late Carl & Evelyn (Kimler) Strawhacker. On February 11, 1967, at St. Mark’s Methodist Church in Council Bluffs, Iowa, he married Joan King and she survives.

Jerry was a 1959 graduate of Galesburg Sr High School and a 1970 graduate of Valparaiso Technical Institute where he earned an associate degree in electronic engineering technology. He served in the United States Army from 1963-1966. Jerry retired in April of 2001 from Delphi Electronics after 29 years of service as an electronic technician. Jerry's love of children and wanting to make a difference in their lives allowed him to work with Kokomo School Corporation as a Paraprofessional for 11 years serving with Maple Crest and Central Middle schools.

Jerry was a member of Shiloh United Methodist Church, serving as Sunday school superintendent, chairman of staff parish for 1 year, Methodist Men’s President for 2 years, and was a member of the Inquisitor’s Sunday School Class. He was also a member of the Steering Committee for the Howard County Creation Care Group. Jerry was an amateur radio operator in his earlier years and enjoyed woodworking along with several other hobbies. He was a fixer of all things and a professional putterer because he didn’t like to sit down for very long.

Jerry served as a PAL soccer coach for 15 years from 1981-1996, KHS co-ed soccer coach, and later girls varsity soccer coach. He loved tending to his vegetable garden, watching old cartoons and animated movies, and traveling. He was endlessly kind, patient, and a thoughtful teacher to all who would listen. He was a quiet servant and supportive husband, father, and grandfather.

Along with his wife Joan, Jerry is also survived by his children, Julie Strawhacker and Jason (Jennifer) Strawhacker; grandchildren, Andrew Strawhacker, Noah Strawhacker, and Sam Strawhacker; and sister, Joyce (Eugene) Bell.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Nancy Strawhacker; and brother, John Strawhacker.

A memorial service will be held at 3:00 pm Friday, December 15, 2023 at Shiloh United Methodist Church, 5741 W. 100 N., Kokomo, with Pastor Joe Johnson officiating. Friends are invited to visit with family from 1-3 pm Friday at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Jerry’s memory to Neurofibromatosis Foundation or Shiloh United Methodist Church. Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory has been entrusted with arrangements. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.