Michael Earl Strong

Michael Earl Strong

July 3, 1934 – October 1, 2021

A Tacoma native, Michael E. Strong was born at St. Joseph Hospital to parents Earl and Cecilia (Hermsen) Strong. He attended Holy Rosary, Bellarmine Prep HS, and graduated from the University of Portland. In 1949, Michael was one of the few freshmen in school history ever to be the starting quarterback for his high school varsity football team, where he continued as a star athlete.

Michael was a true patriot. Upon college graduation, Michael joined the Air Force and trained as a navigator.  He was assigned to the Strategic Air Command as a Combat Crew Navigator in the 384th Air Refueling Squadron at Westover Air Force Base in Massachusetts.

After 4 years in the Air Force, Michael joined The Alcoa Corporation. With the passing of his father in 1970, Michael left Alcoa and joined his brother, David, to assist with his drive-in restaurants. Michael managed The Goofy Goose Drive-In on 6th Avenue while David managed the Mt. Tahoma Drive-In.

In the mid-1980s, Michael started his Certified Financial Planning firm with Raymond James & Assoc., located on the Ruston Way Waterfront until retirement in 2008. He earnestly looked after the well-being of his clients.

Michael volunteered much of his time at St. Patrick Church, Holy Cross Church, and Knights of Columbus #16667. He served as Board President for The Exchange Club, Local Pierce County Serra Club President, and as the First Western WA USA Council President for Serra International.

Michael enjoyed being a member of the Tacoma Yacht Club, with his loving wife, Judith. Family and friends shared many memorable times there.  When the children were grown, Michael and Judith traveled throughout Europe and the United States. Closer to home, they enjoyed their timeshare at Surfcrest on the coast, also with family and friends.

Michael was a devout Catholic, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and recently a great-grandfather.

Michael is survived by his adoring wife, Judith; his brother, David Strong; wonderful children,

Christa (Rudy) Bauer, Jennifer (Greg) Raquer, Steve Strong, Kirt (Shannon) Baldwin, and Shelly (Tom) Gerson; cherished grandchildren, Hannah, Olivia, Sophie, Jonathan, and Lillian; a delightful great-granddaughter, Felicity; and many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews.

A Funeral Mass will be held at Holy Cross Church on Thursday Oct. 14, 2021 at 11:00AM.  Donations may be made in Michael’s memory to Holy Cross Church, 5510 N 44th Street, Tacoma, WA  98407.  Online guest book go to gaffneycares.com

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