1957-2025
David Clark Strahl passed away peacefully at his home in Overland Park, Kansas on January 6th, 2025, at the age of 67.
David was born on February 15, 1957, in Iola, Kansas, to Richard and Shirley (Applegate) Strahl. He graduated from Iola High School in 1976. He was a standout football player in high school, excelling as both a wide receiver and running back.
David married Rita Brennan in 1984, and they welcomed their daughter, Heather, in 1986. Though their paths later diverged, they shared many meaningful moments and the joy of raising their daughter.
From a young age, David always dreamed of joining the military, and in 1977 he proudly enlisted in the U.S. Army. He served with honor for 20 years, rising to the rank of Sergeant as a Green Beret medic. Throughout his distinguished career, he was a dedicated and skilled member of one of the most elite units in the military, providing life-saving care in some of the most challenging and demanding situations. He carried his accomplishments with quiet humility and was rarely one to speak of his service. He preferred to focus on the present and the people around him. Those close to him knew about his sense of duty and sacrifice, but he never sought recognition. Instead, he believed he was just doing his part.
David was an avid fan of the Kansas City Chiefs and KU Jayhawks basketball. He enjoyed being outdoors and biking with friends. He shared a close bond with his little sister, Barb, that remained strong throughout their lives. He found great joy in watching his grandsons grow up and attended many school programs and sporting events. He cherished spending time on the golf course with his daughter, Heather. His beloved dog, Maggie, and cat, Hot Rod, were never far from his side. Above all, he found immense joy in spoiling his grandsons, making them feel loved and special.
David was preceded in death by his wife, Rita; his father, Richard; and his sister, Robyn (Strahl) Bain.
He is survived by his mother, Shirley; sisters, Barbara (Strahl) Rush and Deborah (Strahl) Crawford; his daughter, Heather; his grandsons, Lucas and Dylan Harrington; and a large extended family, including cherished aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.
He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. His presence brought warmth and joy, and we are heartbroken by his loss.
A memorial service for Mr. Strahl will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, January 24, 2025, at Wesley United Methodist Church, 301 E. Madison Avenue, Iola, Kansas. Inurnment will immediately follow at Highland Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Green Beret Foundation, and may be left with Feuerborn Family Funeral Service, 1883 US Highway 54, Iola, Kansas. Condolences for the family may be left at www.feuerbornfuneral.com.
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Service/Mass
301 East Madison Avenue
Iola, KS 66749
Interment Funeral
800 N. Cottonwood
Iola, KS 66749
Funeral Home in Charge
1883 US Highway 54
Iola, Kansas.