James “Jim” F. Strnad

James Francis Strnad, 82 of Plover, passed away surrounded by his loving family on September 17, 2025 after a brief illness.

Jim, as most know him, was born on July 26, 1943 in Cresco, IA to Joseph and Irene Strnad.  He was the middle child of 3 and spent much of his childhood on the family farm in Protivin, IA.  Known as a bit of a rascal by his parents, he would sometimes fake illness from school so he could ride on the mail route with his dad.

After high school, Jim enlisted in the U.S. Army in a "buddy group" along with 4 other classmates and took basic training together while stationed at Fort Riley, Kansas.  While he served during the Vietnam Era, he was never called up and was honorably discharged at the rank of Specialist E4 in 1967. After his Army discharge, he joined the American Legion in Protivinand enjoyed marching in parades.

His transition back into civilian life included meeting his wife, Elizabeth "Liz", in 1972 after being set up on a blind date by mutual friends.  They later married at St. Felix Catholic Church in Wabasha, MN on May 11, 1974. They made their home in Protivin and New Hampton, IA for a number of years where they started their family. After a brief job relocation to Illinois, they settled in the Stevens Point/Plover area in 1987.  Jim worked for Donaldson Company as a quality control engineer until his retirement in 2009.  He and Liz enjoyed traveling to visit family, seeing lighthouses and exploring new places together.  One special place for them was Door County, WI where they created countless memories.  Jim was a faithful caregiver to his wife during her 20+ year journey with cancer.  Their loyal partnership lasted 51 years until Liz's passing this July.

In addition to serving with the American Legion Honor Guard, he was a member of St. Stephen Catholic Church where he served as a server, Lector, Eucharistic Minister, and member to several committees. Jim was a handy person who enjoyed woodworking, tinkering, antique tractors, cars, and helping out anyone who needed it.  Jim never met a stranger.

He is survived by his children Jennifer Wilkinson (Steve) of Goshen, IN; Paul Strnad of Baraboo, WI; and Sara Edwards (Bill) of Highland Park, IL along with four grandchildren Garin (Wilkinson), Billy, Sammy, and Jimmy (Edwards).  He is also survived by a sister Donna Dietzenbach (Lyle) of Protivin, IA and several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his wife, Liz; his parents, brother Arnold and nephew Joseph Strnad.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Jim will be held on Friday, October 3rd, 2025 at 11:00 AM at St. Stephen Catholic Church, 1401 Clark Street, Stevens Point. Rev Jeffrey Hennes will officiate. Inurnment will follow in the Guardian Angel Cemetery with full military honors. There will be a visitation for family and friends on Friday from 9:00 AM until the time of service at the church. Pisarski Funeral Homes are honored to be serving the Strnad Family.

In lieu of flowers, it is suggested to make a charitable donation in Jim's memory to an organization of your choice.