Dillon D. Stroede

Dillon Donald Stroede was born October 20, 1989 in Wichita KS. On December 14, 2012 he passed from this life at KU Medical Center from complications of Cystic Fibrosis, and was welcomed into Heaven by his sister Amber.

Though diagnosed early on with Cystic Fibrosis, it did not dampen his playful, youthful spirit. As a child, his slightly freckled face, coupled with a grin, which always seemed to be missing a tooth, would light up a room and brighten the spirits of all that he encountered. He attended St. John's Catholic School where he earned the love and respect of his teachers and created many friendships.

In 1999 his sister Amber died from CF, and though shaken, Dillon rebounded with his infectious smile and zest for life. He realized that he now was the eldest sibling of his three brothers, and took the role of mentor seriously. He taught his brothers by example with his gentle quiet smile, his sincere spirit, his manners and sense of fair play. No request lacked a "Please"; no favor was missing a "Thank you".

He graduated from High School in 2008 and attended Fort Hays State University, studying Psychology. In 2010 he moved to Caney, Kansas where he used his compassionate and caring nature working with the mentally handicapped, and volunteering at a local animal shelter.

In 2012, with symptoms of his disease progressing, he moved back to Beloit to focus his attention on regaining his health. In August of 2012, he entered KU Medical Center for a lengthy stay, where he earned the respect and love of all he met. His quiet, patient, humble resolve became an inspiration to scores of staff and employees at KU and many folks at home. On many occasions he demonstrated his resolve with the words "I'm gonna beat this." He taught many lessons on strength of character, personal resolve, and humility during his lifetime. Then on December 14, after seeing the work that Dillon had accomplished, God graciously called him home.

He is survived by his parents Allen and Tammy Eilert and brothers Nicholas, Patrick, and Landon, all of Beloit, his parents Darren and Kelsey Stroede, Manhattan; grandparents, Don and Sharon Stroede, Rosella Eilert, of Beloit and Jerry and Pat Istas, Manhattan.

Funeral Services will be held at 10 AM Tuesday at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church with Father Joseph Kieffer celebrating the funeral mass. Burial will follow in St. John's Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation/Great Strides or St. John's Memorial Trust Fund. Dillon will lie in state from 9:00 AM until 4:00 PM Monday at the McDonald Funeral Home. The Parish Vigil & Rosary will be held at 7:00 PM Monday at the church.