Strouf Funeral Home

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Racine, WI
Strouf Funeral Home

Strouf Funeral Home is a full service funeral home offering complete funerals and cremations for both at need and pre-need basis.

Strouf Funeral Home was established in 1925 and has been operating in the present location since 1927. A family operation, Dan Strouf opened the funeral home, was succeeded in operation by Oscar Sheffield for many years as Strouf-Sheffield. 90 years later with the retirement of current owner and director Robert G. Guddie II, passed down from Michael D. Meier.l after many years working together. We continue to be dedicated to serving our families with customized funerals to meet modern day needs and traditional services many still expect.

10/26/2026

Racine - Jeffrey S. Schneider, age 69, passed away at Columbia St. Mary's Hospital in Milwaukee on Friday, October 23, 2026.

Jeffrey was born on January 12, 1957, and grew up in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, before making Racine his home later in life. He dedicated many years to driving school buses for both the Racine and Milwaukee School Districts, where the children affectionately nicknamed him “Santa Claus”.

Known as a jokester, Jeffrey once playfully told his daughter, Caitlynn, for four years that he was 68 years old—reflecting his fun-loving and mischievous nature. An avid fan of WWE wrestling, he enjoyed the excitement and entertainment it brought.

Though he could be difficult at times, Jeffrey was always a loving father and grandfather who cared deeply for his family. His warmth, humor, and unique personality left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Jeffrey is survived by his daughters, Caitlynn and Ciara Schneider; grandchildren, Harley and JJ Schneider; nephew, Diego Salais (Katherine Millard); great-nieces and nephews, Georgia, Brayle, and Leticia Salais; cousin, Brandy Williams; many other relatives, family and friends.

There will be no services held at this time.

10/26/2026

James E. Kaplan, Jr., 78, ran to the Arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, early Saturday morning, October 24, 2026, at Columbia St. Mary's Hospital in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Jim was born on August 31, 1948, to James E. and Wilma (Proeber) Kaplan, Sr., who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Daniel Kaplan.

He proudly served in the U.S. Navy in the early 1970s, stationed in the Philippines — a language he still enjoyed speaking now and then. He then dedicated 28 years to the City of Racine Department of Public Works.

A man of deep faith, Jim served in Jail Ministry at the Racine County Jail, always ready and willing to share Jesus, his Lord and Savior. His heart was to help others and to ask, "Do you know Jesus? Don't leave earth without Him." He loved and worshipped God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Jim was a faithful member of Hope City Church in Racine and loved listening to Pastor Tylre, both in person and at home via YouTube.

Jim continued his service to his community as Alderman for the City of Racine Fourth District for 10 years, and as County Supervisor for the Fourth District for 2 years.

Jim always loved to help others. Jim and his beloved wife, Julie, were married on September 7, 1984, celebrating 42 years of marriage this past September.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Julie; his beloved dogs, Wilma Lu and Marie Irene; his nephew, Justin, and his wife Dana, and their children Adeline, Emsley, and Julian; his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Richard and Barbara Steberl; nephews Richard (J.R.) and Jenny Steberl and their children Gryphon, Jareth, and Kaitlyn; Robert and Mandasia Steberl, and their children Arabella, Owen, Chloe, and Kira; and Danny and Holly Steberl and their son Riker and Daniel's stepson Carter; and many cousins, including Carolyn Jacobson and Tony Totero, who always shared their scrumptious spaghetti and sauce every Christmas Day for many, many years.

Special thanks to J.R., Jenny, Kaitlyn, and Jareth Steberl for all of their love, support, and help during this trying time.

There will be no funeral service. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Memorials may be directed to the family.

10/21/2026

Racine - Joseph P. Tessman, age 69, passed away peacefully on October 17, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Racine on May 11, 1957, to Carl and Evelyn (née Ferjanchik). He attended Park High School in Racine.

In 1983, Joseph met the love of his life, Marilyn Wieland, at Castle Lanes Bowling Alley—he was bowling, she was bartending. It was love at first sight. Together, they shared 43 wonderful years together, filled with laughter, partnership, and cherished memories. The couple enjoyed quiet times at their trailer in Mauston, Wisconsin, where they often relaxed and connected with nature. In 1999, they purchased their current home, lovingly remodeling it into a place filled with family warmth and comfort.

Joseph was a lifelong mechanic, teaching himself much of his trade, fueled by his passion for cars and motorcycles. Beyond the garage, he found joy in bowling, fishing, and golfing. A devoted fan of Wisconsin sports, Joseph cheered enthusiastically for the Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Brewers, and all things Wisconsin.

He was a wonderful father who worked hard to teach his sons the values of strength and integrity. While he could be tough at times, his heart was always full of love, and he never hesitated to help his family. Joseph’s greatest joy was his grandchildren, whom he cherished deeply.

His legacy is one of love, dedication, and the quiet strength that bound his family together.

He is survived by his loving wife, Marilyn; children, Nick (Niquole) Tessman, Zach Tessman and Ashleigh Sandbach; grandchildren, Andrew, Eli, Holly, Carter, Paul, and Ryleigh; siblings, Jane Larsen, Jake Tessman, Carol Seater, and Jeff Tessman; many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Private services will be held for the family.

10/13/2026

Debra Jean Folk (nee. Andersen) passed away on October 10, 2026, at the age of 70. She was born on May 31, 1956, in Racine, WI, the daughter of Clarence and Jeanette Andersen. Growing up, Debra spent a lot of time with her siblings. She and her sister, Patty, were very close. She enjoyed visiting Lake Michigan, listening to Elvis, and being anywhere her family was. She loved her grandchildren more than anything.

Debra was a lover of animals and the kind of woman who would stop traffic to rescue a stray cat. She spent her life taking care of others and always had a way of making people feel welcome and loved. Her kindness, generosity, and selflessness were simply part of who she was. She leaves behind a lifetime of memories, countless friendships, and a love that will continue to live on through everyone who was lucky enough to know her.

Debra is survived by her husband, Randy Folk; her two sons, Daniel (Susan) Verwey and Bryan (Hailey) Taulbee; her stepchildren, Brad (Jessica) Folk and Sara Folk; and her beloved grandchildren, Alexandria Verwey, Sydney Verwey, Carter Verwey, Mason Taulbee, Addison Taulbee, and Noah Taulbee. She is also survived by her cherished step-grandchildren, Savanna Woeste and Winston Woeste, whom she loved as her own.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Jeanette Andersen, and her siblings, Patricia Andersen, Colleen Andersen, Clarence “Sonny” Andersen, Theodore Andersen, and Richard Andersen.

Debra will be laid to rest privately at West Lawn Memorial Park.

10/12/2026

Racine – Mitchell “Mick” L. Stich, age 71, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 11, 2026, at Aurora Medical Center – Mt. Pleasant. Mitchell was born on November 4, 1954, in Oconto, Wisconsin, to Dorothy Stich. Dorothy later married Mitchell's stepfather Calvin Murphy. Growing up, his summers were spent in Oconto with his beloved Uncle Harry, who played a tremendous role in shaping the man Mitchell became, left an indelible mark on his life.

Mitchell found joy in his work driving semi-trucks, cherishing the freedom of the open road. He loved deer hunting and fishing. Known for his unforgettable orneriness, Mitchell balanced his spirited nature with a deeply caring and loving heart. His unique way of saying hello on the telephone became a trademark gesture, instantly recognizable to family and friends.

Music was a lifelong companion, and he delighted in the sounds of Elvis Presley, The Beatles, and Motown Music. He was a devoted follower of the Green Bay Packers and an enthusiastic fan of UFC. Mitchell was especially close to his mother, Dorothy. He treasured her homemade chili and frequently brought his children to visit her while the two of them enjoyed coffee together.

Family was at the center of his life; more than anything, he loved and cherished those closest to him. His warmth, humor, and loyalty will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Mitchell is survived by his children, Mick (Amanda) Stich, Nick Stich, Schantell (Tim) Kennedy, Kyle (Jessica) Stich, Paul Stich, and Misty Schoephoerster; grandchildren, Kayla, Hunter, Jasmin, Cameron, Christopher, Victoria, Ryan, Aaron, Dakota, Avery, and Brayden; great-grandchildren, Macie, McKenna, Charlie, Chloe, Kalli, Mia, Gatlin, Gracelynn, and Wrenly; siblings, Doug (Laura) Bergevain, Johnny Murphy, David Bergevain, Jody Bergevain, and Erma Pearson; many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Calvin and Dorothy; sons, Mitchell and Michael Stich; grandson, Tyler Stich; brother, Bobby Bergevain; and sister-in-law, Shannon Morrone.

Visitation will be held on Friday, October 16, 2026, at Strouf Funeral Home from 10:00 am - 1:00 pm. Funeral services will take place at 1:00 pm, followed by interment at Holy Cross Cemetery - Hwy 32.

10/12/2026

In Loving Memory of Samarion “Papi” R. Campbell Aranda, age 17, who passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, October 4, 2026. He was born in Racine on September 14, 2009.

He is survived by his grandmother, Sandra Aranda; siblings, Giselle, Amaya, Maliah, Herman, Ramone Jr., Ja’Vontae, Takira, Tamira, Rayshawn, and Ray’Vonte; mother, Margarita Aranda; father, Ramone Campbell; many aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Samarion was preceded in death by his sisters, Sandra “Nana” Aranda and Ti’yana Campbell.

Private services will be held for Samarion’s family.

10/06/2026

Racine – Juan A. Rangel, Jr., age 69, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 4, 2026. He was born on June 24, 1957, in Evanston, IL to parents Juan and Anita (nee. Uribe) Rangel, Sr.

Juan stayed current with the latest in movies and sports, reflecting a lifelong passion for entertainment. An avid collector of movies and CDs, he treasured his extensive collection. He enjoyed an active lifestyle, often riding his bike throughout Racine and taking daily walks that brought him both joy and peace.

He was a kind and remarkable person, generous with his knowledge and always willing to share it with others. His warmth and wisdom touched many, and he will be deeply missed.

He is survived by his siblings, Juanita R. (Juventino) Aldana, Lucille (Sergio) Hernandez, Eusebio (Julie) Rangel, Patricio Rangel, and Jose Rangel; many nieces, nephews and cousins, that reside in Wisconsin, Illinois, Texas.

Juan was preceded in death by his parents, Juan and Anita, step-mother, Nemencia Rangel; sister, Rosemary G. (Steve) Salas.

Visitation for Juan will take place on Sunday, October 11, 2026, at Strouf Funeral Home from 3:00-5:00 pm, with funeral services starting at 5:00 pm. Burial will take place on Monday, October 12, 2026, at Holy Cross Cemetery in Racine at 11:00 am. Please meet at the funeral home at 10:00 am, with the procession leaving at 10:45 am for the cemetery.

10/05/2026

Terry Valdean Kaprelian, age 79, passed away on September 30, 2026. He was born August 20, 1947, in Carbondale, Ill. He was a Vietnam Veteran, as well as served an additional 9 years in the National Guard. In 1981, while serving in the National Guard, he won the Milwaukee Journal Outstanding Achievement Award.

He married the love of his life, Joanne Ricchio, on December 28, 1968. They had three sons, Terry, Arthur and Daniel. Together, they enjoyed helping out when the boys had their PeeWee and Old Timers football games as well as driving them on their country newspaper routes. He enjoyed fishing, playing golf and watching the Green Bay Packers and Milwaukee Brewers. He loved gardening and absolutely loved reading, especially Stephen King books.

He worked at the VA in North Chicago for many years, and ended his work career driving city bus for 12 years until he retired. He was living at the Veterans Nursing Home in Union Grove for the past three years. He had many friends there, and they all knew he was a true Trekkie (Star Trek) because he would never let anyone leave without his familiar hand raised in the Star Trek sign and say “Live Long and Prosper”.

He developed Parkinson's, as well as Idiopic Pulmonary Fibrosis and COPD over the past 15 years which finally took its toll on September 30, 2026. We knew this day was coming, but when it happens, it leaves such an emptiness in our hearts. We all loved him very much.

He leaves behind his wife, Joanne (nee. Ricchio) Kaprelian; their children, Terry, Arty, and Dan; his brothers, Dr. Vallie Michael (Michelle) Kaprelian, and Timothy Kaprelian; his sister Helen Sandra (Roger) Vines; his grandchildren, Daniel, Brittany, Jacob, Erika, Jonah, Frankie; great grandchildren Dominic, Aiden and Raegan.

A small service with full military honors will be held at the Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Union Grove for family on Friday morning, October 23rd, where his ashes will be placed in the wall. Family and friends are invited to Infusino’s Banquet Hall on Friday, October 23rd at 11:00 for a celebration of life.

09/30/2026

Frank D. Stritesky, age 72, passed away on September 27, 2026, surrounded by his loving family at Froedtert Medical Center of Wisconsin. He was born on July 6, 1954, in Racine, WI to Woodrow (Woody) and Alice Stritesky (nee. Osten). Frank graduated from William Horlick High School - Class of 1972 - and worked as an Engineer at In-Sink-Erator, retiring after 39 years.

Frank was united in marriage to the love of his life, LouAnn on November 9, 1974, and together they had two children and two grandchildren. They both had immense pride in knowing that this year would be 52 years of wedded bliss. Together they retired to Northern Wisconsin where Frank enjoyed a number of hobbies and always loved to host friends and family.

He was able to hold a number of special titles throughout his life including husband, father, godfather, and uncle. Frank was truly a kind soul; known for his infectious smile and his willingness to help in any way he was able.

Frank was a member of St. Rita Catholic Parish. In his free time, he could be found hunting, fishing, and spending quality time with friends and family. Frank was a lover of all things fast, often telling stories about his time spent racing cars; collector cars and motorcycles.

Frank is survived by his loving wife, Lou Ann; his son, Justin and his daughter, Kay (Nick) Wiegert; two grandchildren who were the light of his life, Madyson and Emilia. Frank is further survived by an abundance of family including brother and sister in laws, nieces, nephews, and cousins all of whom will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Glen Stritesky.

Frank will be remembered through a Celebration of Life on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at the VFW in Kenosha, 6618 39th Ave, Kenosha, WI 53142. Everyone is welcome to meet with the family from 1:00PM-2:00PM. At 2PM a short prayer and memorial will be said for Frank with a celebration to follow. Everyone is asked to please party for Frank one last time. Everyone is encouraged to remember Frank by wearing your favorite Harley gear or anything for the Green Bay Packers or Chicago Cubs. We are sure that Frank is bringing home a Cubs World Series!!

The family would like to extend a special thank you to all of the staff at Froedtert Medical center for caring for Frank as if he was their own family. The care received by both Frank and his family could not be matched. The family is incredibly grateful for every person who crossed paths with Frank throughout this journey. A very special thank you to Megan, Travis, and Kristen from CVI ICU. There are not enough words to describe the care that was given by them. And lastly but certainly not least, a warm Thank you to Dr. Sulton and his entire team for the time, dedication and care that was given to Frank.

09/24/2026

In Loving Memory of My Son, Darius Allen

June 10, 2000 – September 20, 2026

It is with profound sadness and a broken heart that I announce the passing of my beloved son, Darius Allen, who left this world far too soon on September 20, 2026, at the age of 26.

Darius was a one-of-a-kind son, brother, and beloved member of our family whose presence brought immeasurable joy to everyone fortunate enough to know him. His life was filled with passion, strength, loyalty, and a love for the people and things that meant the most to him.

From the age of five, Darius found a love for football that remained with him throughout his life. He was a devoted Philadelphia Eagles and Philadelphia 76ers fan, proudly cheering on his teams whenever he could.

Music was another part of Darius's soul. His true passion was making music, where he had a creative spirit and a desire to express himself through his art. He also found his strength and determination through mixed martial arts. Standing 6'5", Darius thrived in the sport, embodying the discipline, courage, and perseverance that made him who he was.

Above all, Darius was a protector. To our family, he was someone they could look to, depend on, and feel safe with. He brought laughter, happiness, and countless unforgettable moments into our lives. The joy he gave us can never be replaced, and the space he leaves behind can never truly be filled.

Darius still had so much life to live, so many dreams to pursue, and so much love to give. Though his life was far too short, the impact he made will remain forever. His memory will live on in the music he created, the passions he pursued, the memories he gave his loved ones, and in the hearts of everyone who knew and loved him.

Darius is survived by his loving parents, Stephen Allen and Jami Allen; his brothers, Devonntae Lampkins, Daylan Allen, and Dorian Allen; and his sister, Raven Allen; half brothers, Josh and Ariel Houston. He also leaves behind extended family, friends, and loved ones who will forever cherish his memory.

Darius, you were deeply loved, fiercely protected by your family, and will never be forgotten. Your life mattered. Your presence mattered. Your love mattered. You will always be our protector, our son, our brother, and a part of our family that can never be replaced.

As your mother, I will carry you in my heart every day for the rest of my life. There will always be an empty place where you should be, but there will never be an empty place in my heart.

Until we meet again, my son, rest peacefully. We love you forever.

A Memorial Service for Darius will take place on Friday, October 2, 2026, at 6:30 PM at the Gospel Lighthouse Church, 933 LaSalle Street, Racine, WI.

Address

1001 High Street
Racine, WI
53402

Website

http://www.strouf.com/

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