Obituary of Daryl John Strenge

    Daryl John Strenge was born in Melvin, Iowa on September 26, 1933, to John and May (Bauman) Strenge. He grew up on the family farm west of Melvin along with his two brothers: Verlyn and Glen. He received his education in Melvin, graduating from Melvin High School with the class of 1952.

    On July 14, 1953, Daryl was united in marriage to Marilee Elizabeth Streeter in Cherokee, Iowa. They spent their life together farming near Melvin, being stewards of the land for nearly 71 years. In that time, four children were added to their family: Steve, Mike, Karen and Matthew.

    As anyone in agriculture knows, every season comes with its own set of challenges, and Daryl faced each one with his usual calm demeanor and wry sense of humor. Being a farmer at heart, he was naturally interested in land management issues and the policies that govern its sustainability for the future. As an Osceola County Supervisor, he had the opportunity to use his own experiences in offering common-sense solutions to local problems, helping shape a positive path forward for himself and his neighbors. For a time, he was involved with the Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service, acting as an ASC Field Tech. He also gave back to his rural community by volunteering as a leader for the Goewey Gunners 4-H Club out of Melvin, sharing real, first-hand farming knowledge - not always found in books.

    There wasn’t anything Daryl couldn’t fix…or at least, try to. He was an excellent welder and had a way with tools and small engines. Since motorcycles had always been a passion of his, he spent a few hours in his shop and put together go-carts and a “primitive” four-wheeler so his kids and grandkids could fly around the farm. (He liked them too!) Fun times off the farm included golfing, taking in musicals and traveling. Daryl enjoyed seeing new places and meeting different people. One hour at the shopping mall and he’d have five new friends. He and Marilee visited many places around the United States as well as taking a memorable trip to Hawaii with their dear friends.

    Daryl belonged to the Knights of Columbus, sat on the Melvin School Board, and had served as a CCD teacher at St. Cecilia’s Catholic Church in Sanborn, Iowa, where he had been a member before joining St. Anthony’s in Primghar, Iowa.

    On Saturday, June 28, 2025, Daryl passed from this life at the age of 91 years. Preceding him were his wife, Marilee Strenge; his grandson, Seth Strenge; parents, John and May Strenge; his sister, Leila Strenge; and brothers: Verlyn and Glen Strenge.

    Left to cherish his memory are his children: Steve Strenge (Maria Elena) of Melvin, Iowa, Mike Strenge of Milford, Iowa, Karen Preusser (Marty Preusser), and Matthew Strenge (Hannah Reha) all of Minneapolis, Minnesota; eight grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; other relatives and many friends.