LAGRANGEVILLE – It is with an extremely heavy heart that we share the news of the passing of Jack Aidan Strehl, 16, a lifelong area resident, on October 14, 2022.
This is the amazing life of an all-American boy and his everlasting smile.
In July of 2017, at the young age of 11, Jack earned his Blackbelt in Tae Kwon Do at Telesco’s Martial Arts after only 5 years of training. This was a very proud moment for Jack and his family as it taught him Respect, Humility, Perseverance, Self Control, Honesty, Concentration, Belief, Discipline and Appreciation. Jack worked hard at applying these principles throughout his life.
Since the age of 14, Jack was a hard working member of the maintenance crew at The Links at Union Vale. Jack worked alongside his dad, impressing coworkers with his hard work ethic for such a young man. Many times we’ve been told by teachers, family and friends what a respectful young man we are raising. Jack was brought up knowing that your name means everything and that you should care how people say it; with excitement to see you or with a sigh. We are proud that Jack’s name was always said with excitement and happiness. Jack lived his life with promise for each new day. Jack was always seen with a smile on his face. He was a kind and gentle soul, who always looked to be a good friend and to help others.
Jack was a Junior at Arlington High School, where he was on the Track & Field Team as a thrower for shot put and discus. During most meets, Jack could be found cheering on not only his AHS teammates, but also his competitors. He took the time getting to know their names, and let them know they had a great throw.
In his spare time, Jack loved taking family hikes at Tymor Park or relaxing on the couch watching funny movies with his family, all the while, snuggling with one of his pets, River, Brooke or Max. Jack was an avid dirt bike rider who spent countless hours riding with his friends Evan B., Mark, Ayden, Michael S. and Lance. Jack loved playing video games with his brother, Joseph, his cousins, Kristi, Dylan and Kevin and friends, Colin, David and Evan G. Most recently, Jack earned his driving permit and was excited to test-out the shocks and right rear tire, hitting all the ditches while making right turns with his Mom’s Pilot, a car he was to receive. Jack had also attended two college fairs, where he was excited to plan a future in either Engineering or explore the new Aviation program at DCC. Jack's future was bright, but sadly it was cut short.
Jack is survived by his loving parents, Christopher and Debra (Gerardi) Strehl. He was the proud brother to Anna and Joseph Strehl. He was a beloved grandson to Joseph and Theresa Gerardi and Gloria Strehl. He will always be remembered by his aunts and uncles, John Strehl, Kelly Gerardi, Theresa Gerardi, and Joseph Gerardi. Jack was the “favorite” cousin to Kristi, Richelle, Kellsey, Jenna, Dylan, Shea, Kevin, Kaleigh, Michael, and Layla. Additionally many extended family and close friends will never forget Jack. Jack was predeceased by his grandfather, John “Jack” W. Strehl in 2008.
Calling hours will be held on Friday from 3 - 7 pm at the McHoul Funeral Home, Inc., 895 Route 82, Hopewell Junction. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Saturday at 10 am at St. Kateri Church, 1925 Route 82, LaGrangeville. In honor of Jack’s favorite color, we ask that you please wear something blue to the services.
A scholarship is being set up at Arlington High School in memory of Jack. Donations may be made payable to the Arlington Education Foundation, 144 Todd Hill Road, LaGrangeville, NY 12540. Please reference the Jack Aidan Strehl Scholarship in the memo field.
Please visit Jack’s Book of Memories at www.mchoulfuneralhome.com.