Michael Strunk

Michael Daniel "Mike" Strunk, 63, died suddenly while playing golf in Casa Grande on March 6, 2013.
Mr. Strunk, often called "Grandy" or "Strunk," was born in Princeton, Ill., on June 21, 1949, and lived in Tiskilwa, Ill., before moving to Princeton as a child. One of his first loves was operating heavy equipment, which he began at a young age in his family's Illinois construction company. He was an excellent operator and enjoyed every aspect of the heavy equipment industry throughout his life. He particularly loved teaching other operators and traveled throughout the world to do so. He eventually settled in Arizona, where he continued as a demonstrator/operator at Empire Machinery for 19 years, which involved extensive travel to mines, construction sites and golf courses in the Southwest. After he retired from Empire Machinery in 2007 he continued to enjoy earth moving as a "spectator sport."
Following his retirement he and his wife, Sandy, sold their home in Tempe and began traveling full-time in their RV, which provided them with fun and adventure throughout the West. He was passionate about golf and was also an excellent instructor for his family. He was kind, generous and funny and enjoyed jokes, music, games, movies, history, reading, fishing and fried chicken.
Besides his wife, survivors include his children, sisters and grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two brothers and a sister.
In honor of his wishes, a private celebration of his life will take place in Casa Grande on Saturday. Family and friends in Arizona will play a round of golf, eat fried chicken and share "Strunk" memories. Sandy asks that those who loved him gather together for a similar celebration near their home. Photo memorial cards will be mailed to any family members or friends who would like one. Forward mailing addresses and/or condolences for the family to: Sarah Ward, 3644 E. Tonto Place, Chandler, AZ 85249 or sarah.ward@pinnacleco.net.
J. Warren Funeral Services, Cole & Maud The Gardens Chapel was in charge of arrangements.