Richard E. Strohkirch

Born March 24, 1943 to George and Jane Strohkirch in St. Paul. He was a twin to his brother Thomas who was born first. Passed away on August 9, 2018.   Preceded in death by his grandparents, Emil and Anna Strohkirch; Andrew and Ella Swanson, parents George and Jane and brother, Larry.  Survived by brother, Tom and nephews Michael (Lisa) and David; sister-in-law, Sharonlee, nephew, Scott and niece Stacy Lowney; grandnieces, Jordyn, Piper, Audrey, Gwendolyn; grandnephews, Justin and Jason.  Richard graduated from Wilson High School and Hamline University.  He taught school in Eden Prairie. He started and coached hockey and tennis teams for 30 years at Eden Prairie. As a valued teacher he was recognized for many accomplishments in his years at Eden Prairie Schools and was inducted into Hamline’s Athletic Hall of Fame. He was respected highly by his students that he taught and coached.  Tennis was the love of his life. He and his brother Tom played doubles from the time he could hit the ball. Richard played with many well known players over the years. In 1968 he started the tennis program at Eden Prairie and was president of MN State High School tennis coaches for two years. Took his team 4 times to the State Tournaments. He coached both boys and girls teams. Richard was dedicated to his players. They were his boys and girls, as he did not have children of his own. He lived with a positive attitude and instilled that in his teams.  His brother Tom and he were a dynamo duo, whether playing hockey, football or tennis. They were best friends hunting, fishing, bowling , golfing, enjoying playing in the casino’s or games on their computers.  His family feels our loss is heaven’s gain.  Funeral service 11:00 AM Tuesday, August 14 at MUELLER-BIES FUNERAL HOME-ROSEVILLE, 2130 N. Dale St. @ Co. Rd B. Interment Sunset Memorial Park . Visitation at the funeral home from 10 -11 AM Tuesday.