Thomas J Strickland

Thomas J. Strickland, age 75, of Merritt Island, FL, peacefully passed away on December 28, 2016 at Viera Hospital in Viera, FL, after battling a long illness. He was surrounded by his loving wife, Margaret and his 5 adult children, Tom (Amy) Strickland, Brian (Sherri Ann) Strickland, Sheri (Charles) Bernhard, Randy Strickland, and Willette Strickland, and lovingly missing his six grandchildren, Ricky Allison, Justin Strickland, Brittany Ward, Clinton Bernhard, Rhiannon Bernhard, and Tate Strickland. Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Clarance and Ruth Wheimer. Tom also leaves behind his siblings, Kensey Wheimer, John Strickland, Noble Reynolds and Lisa Gray.

At age 12, Thomas was adopted by Calvin Strickland; Calvin was an active member of the Army and they spent five years in Verdon, France, then returned to Edgewood, Maryland. Tom graduated in 1959 from Edgewood High School, where he was a top football star, going on to receive a 4-year scholarship from William and Mary University. He enlisted in the National Guard at 18 and served his country for 6 years. He was honorably discharged from the Army as an E5 Sergeant.

He came to Florida in the early sixties to work for Chrysler Corporation as a Department Manager. In 1979, he was hired by Boeing, working his way up to become Department Manager of Facilities and Logistics, where he worked until his retirement at the age of 60. After his retirement, he could devote more time to his family and his hobbies.

His most beloved hobby was his cars, which included a 36 Chevy Coupe, 1970 Firebird, 68 Nova, and a 33 Chevy side step pick-up that will be completed by his sons. Of course, let’s not forget the love of his life, his baby, was a 1967 Chevy Camaro. He would race his baby at Bithlow, Bradenton, Gainesville, and West Palm, Florida and in North Carolina as well.

He loved watching the show Fast N’ Loud, the Food Network, and the Discovery Channel. His family would remark how he made the best wings and barbeque EVER! Tom had many, many friends throughout his 75 years, often saying that “he never met a stranger”. If Tom thought of you as family, you knew it. Tom loved his family and friends!

The family would like to offer their sincerest thank you to the outstanding medical and surgical staff, Dr. Allison. Mike, Dave, and Pat, at the 3rd floor of the ICU of Viera Hospital for their loving care and support of Tom.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, January 7, 2017 from 11am - 12pm, followed by a 12pm funeral service at Brevard Memorial Funeral Home.

The family encourages everyone to wear casual attire, as that is what Thomas would want.