Emilie Marie Stokes (née Strenger)
July 9, 1940- May 14, 2024
Emilie Strenger was born in Fremont, Nebraska and was the first child to Dalton and Margaret Strenger. She grew up in Fontanelle, Nebraska learning the many aspects of living on a farm. Emilie had 4 children with her beloved husband, Evert. They later had 3 grandchildren on which to lovingly dote.
In school, Emilie had an interest in reading, journalism and singing. She eventually went to Midland College where she met the love of her life, Evert; and graduated in 1961 with a Bachelor in Education. She married Evert on December 27, 1960 at Salem Lutheran Church in Fontanelle. Emilie was an English teacher in Prague, Silver Creek and Wakefield, Nebraska. She also supported her husband’s efforts as coach, while also starting their young family.
Family life kept Emilie busy. She had to keep an eye on her 4 children–Lisa, Brian, Shawn & Sherrie– and manage a household. Emilie also dealt with her family being somewhat “nomadic.” They moved to various places in Nebraska, Iowa, and Arizona. Their brief Tucson adventure gave her an appreciation for Nebraska’s green springs and snowy winters. She missed the changing seasons.
Emilie worked much of her professional life for NP Dodge Company. She started as a real estate agent; and then worked her way from a commercial property manager to the executive assistant to the company president. She had extensive knowledge of Omaha and its many neighborhoods and was a valued member of the NP Dodge Family.
After retirement, Emilie enjoyed traveling with Evert, attending grandkids’ events, and cheering on the Chicago Cubs. She volunteered at Rejoice Lutheran Church and found great comfort in this community. She could also solve a crossword puzzle like a master.
Several years ago came a frustrating diagnosis of dementia. She handled this change with practical fortitude. As Emilie needed more care, which required moves to assisted living and memory care, she appreciated the love and support that surrounded her. She focused on her faith and her family.
Emilie is preceded in death by her husband, Evert Stokes; her parents, Margaret & Dalton Strenger. She is also preceded in death by her mother- and father-in-law, Cora and George Stokes; brothers-in-law, Ivan, Carl, Vernon “Brick” and Eldon Stokes; sister-in-law, Irene Guy; and other family members, including Marjorie Stokes, Patricia Stokes, Phyllis Stokes, Claire Guy, Leo Lindahl and several nieces and nephews.
Emilie is survived by daughters, Lisa Stokes, Sherrie (Mark) Graeve, Shawn Stokes (Cory Smathers); by son, Brian (Christine) Stokes; and by beloved grandchildren, Calvin and Sophia Graeve and Andrew Stokes; by brother, Jon (Darla) Strenger; by brother- and sister-in-laws, Eugene (LaRue) Stokes, Deta Lindahl, and Leo (Sylvia) Stokes; many loving nieces and nephews
Family will receive friends on Monday, May 20th from 5-7 pm at Heafey, Hoffman, Dworak & Cutler in Omaha.
Funeral will be at 11 am on Tuesday, May 21st at Salem Lutheran Church of Fontanelle, Neb.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to the Alzheimer’s Association or the American Diabetes Association.
13 Comments
Sherrie, I am so very sorry for the loss of your precious mom. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Many hugs.
Thank you Amy! While this week has been tough, your news sure brightened my day. Many hugs back to you in celebration!
Thank you Amy! While this week has been tough, your news sure brightened my day. Many hugs back to you in celebration!
My sincere condolences on the loss of your dear mom & grandma. She was always such a sweet and positive friend and workmate
I knew Emilie at the Faith Group we belonged to at Rejoice! She was fun, kind and delightful! I think of her often. She was a joy to know.
Thinking of you and your family with lots of love, Sherrie.
So sorry for your loss Sherrie, sending hugs to you and your family.
Sherrie, I’m so sorry for your loss. Wishing you and your family peace and comfort.
Remembering great times with your Mom and Dad. We will miss Emily, but we will all cherish the memories we shared with her. She is with Everett now, the love of her life.
I don’t know how many of you knew this, but, I was in HS when my parents took us to Everett and Em’s wedding. From that moment on I knew I wanted a December wedding. My heart aches that we will not be able to be at Emilie’s celebration of life. Praying for everyone to find peace and comfort surrounded by family and friends. Extending our deepest condolences.
Love and Hugs, Dan and Connie
My heart is with all of you. I have lots of fond memories with Emilie. Sending lots of hugs and prayers. Such a sweet soul.
My deepest condolences to the entire Stokes family.
My deepest sympathy. My mother Jane Pfeiffer felt so close to the Strenger family. I spent a summer as a live in nanny to take care of the kids for Emily. I think around 1969 or so. Loved your family so much and I feel so deep sorrow for your loss.
I was so so sorry and extremely sad to hear of Emelie’s passing. As far back as my memory goes she was always someone I looked up to. I am 6 years younger, she always treated me as her equal, the best cousin ever!. As adults, we were always there for each other through good times and bad. My brother, Ron, died a couple month’s ago. It was very hard too. Em was a huge blessing in my life. She was my Angel and I will always love and miss her. My prayers and love go out to all of you.
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