Ralph Theodor Stricker

Ralph Theodor ‘Ted’ Stricker, 79, of Fayetteville, Arkansas, died peacefully on September 5, 2023, at his home. He was born on September 10, 1943, in Woodward, Oklahoma, to Ralph and Johanna Stricker. He is preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Johanna. Ted is survived by his wife, Graciela, of the home; son, Ralph Theodor ‘Tad’ Stricker and wife Valerie, of St. Louis, Missouri; grandson, Jaden Theodor Stricker, of St. Louis, Missouri; sister, Carol Whitlow, of Siloam Springs; brother Don Stricker and wife Connie of Topeka, KS; stepdaughter, Michelle Blackfox, of Fort Smith, Arkansas; stepson, Angel Esquivel Sosa, of the home. Ted began his career as a teacher in Grand Junction, Colorado. He then taught at Mile High Academy in Denver, Colorado, for 7 years. After receiving his law degree at Oklahoma City University School of Law, he continued his journey of service to others as a lawyer. Ted is well-known as a personal injury attorney, helping people throughout Arkansas and greatly admired for his tireless efforts. His family can attest to his 24-hour availability for his clients. Who was Ted’s neighbor? Anyone who needed help. He devoted his resources and time to care for people. Recently, Ted volunteered at Compass Fellowship NWA making sandwiches for community kitchen ministry. When Ted was not working as an attorney, he devoted his life to his family. He loved spending time with his son Tad and grandson Jaden going to St. Louis Cardinals baseball games. Though Ted left his farming days back in his youth, he always felt most comfortable in the countryside of Arkansas at his home, which he affectionately called “The Ranch.” He always enjoyed stopping by his sister Carol’s farm to talk or play cards—avoiding any farm chores if possible. As kids, Ted always loved teasing his younger brother, Don, and playing pranks on him. As adults, he savored their friendship and respected Don’s thoughts on life. He appreciated his role as patriarch of the Stricker Family, and being near so many Strickers in Northwest Arkansas was a blessing to him. Ted and Gracie first met 30 years ago and began an enduring friendship. They connected romantically four years ago and were married on March 26, 2023. Though their time together as husband and wife was shorter then they wanted, their union brought them a deep love and special friendship. Ted’s dry wit and twinkle in his eye will be missed. His caring and loving spirit for his neighbor will serve as an inspiration for his family. Service is scheduled for Saturday, September 16 at Compass Fellowship NWA (2307 US-412 W, Siloam Springs, Arkansas). Visitation begins at 3 pm, and funeral service begins at 4 pm. Graveside service immediately following. To sign the online guestbook, please visit www.wassonfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to Compass Fellowship NWA to benefit their community assistance fund at www.compassnwa.org.

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Ralph Theodor Stricker

September 10, 1943 - September 5, 2023