John Edward Strodl

Born on February 9, 1944 in Parsippany, New Jersey, he is survived by his wife of 54 years, Debby; his two children, Jason Strodl and Lindsay Cleveland; his daughter in-law, Amy Strodl; his son-in-law, Nathan Cleveland; and five beautiful grandchildren, Isabel (21), Charley (19), Addison (17), Hudson (17), and Spencer (14). He was 81 years old.

John was living proof of the American dream. After the passing of his father and mother in New Jersey, a young, brave Johnny moved to Las Vegas in 1960 at the age of 16 to live with his older sister, Kathy Gelber. He graduated from Las Vegas High School, class of 1962. Although he was of very little means, John persevered. With just a motorcycle and a backpack, John set off to the University of Arizona to pursue higher education. Proven to be a resourceful chap, he managed to put himself through college as the house chef for his roommates who agreed to pay for the groceries if John prepared the meals. After he finished college, John returned to Las Vegas where he and his sister Kathy started a real estate company together.

It was shortly after his return to Las Vegas that John found the one thing that would alter the course of his life forever… his one true love, Debby Templeton. The two met on a blind date. Debby wasn’t interested in a playboy and made sure John knew that right away. Surprised by her candidness, John was captivated. Debby was a strong Christian and introduced John to the Lord. They were married less than a year after that first blind date on April 3, 1971.

John soon after found his calling in the business world. He accepted a door-to-door salesman position with State Farm Insurance. Over the next 30 years, he built a book of business and a life for his family. John was never satisfied though… always striving to be a better person, having adventures, and reinventing himself. He enjoyed the pleasures of running, cycling, cooking, skiing, golfing, hunting, fishing, even flying. He surrounded himself with friends, family, good food, and wine. His greatest joy and biggest source of pride, though, was being a dad and grandpa. He coached both his kids’ soccer teams when they were young and did what his parents couldn’t… put them both through college. He’d tell you he was so blessed to have two amazing kids and five incredible grandkids.

His love for the Lord filled him; his faith led him; and he extended that love and grace to so many who knew him. He will be remembered for his love, wit, passion for learning, big heart, bigger smile and zeal for life.

A Memorial Service to celebrate a life well lived will be held on Sunday, May 25 at 1pm at Palm Eastern Mortuary. 7600 S. Eastern Ave. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the American Cancer Society or Hope Church Las Vegas.