Gene Arthur Stroes

Gene Arthur (Strozewski) Stroes passed away on June 9, 2026, in Kalamazoo, Michigan. He was born on February 28, 1937, in South Bend, Indiana, to June (Conrad) Stroes and Frank Stroes.

Gene attended South Bend Central High School, where he distinguished himself as an athlete. During his senior year, he served as captain of the football team and was a member of Northern Indiana's first state champion wrestling team. He continued both his education and athletic career at Ball State University, where he played football and competed on the university's first wrestling team. These early years reflected the determination and discipline that would guide him through life.

After college, Gene proudly served in the United States Marine Corps, an experience that further shaped his character and sense of responsibility. Following his military service, he married and became the father of three children—Bryan, Kathy, and Kimi. He began his professional career with Underwood Corporation as a national account salesman before entering the insurance industry. Over the years, he worked as a State Farm agent, served as Vice President of Branch Operations for Waterfield Mortgage Company in Michigan, and ultimately established his own agency with Farmers Insurance Group, where he enjoyed a successful career spanning 37 years.

On February 6, 1971, Gene married Emma Zeider. In 1980, they welcomed their son, Frank, and built a happy life together, first on Lake of the Woods in Bremen, Indiana, and later in Mishawaka. Gene and Emma loved boating, fishing, and playing cards with family and friends.

Gene was committed to serving his community. He served on the Community Control Panel for the South Bend Community School Corporation and participated in its mentoring program. As a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), he used his voice and experience to support and protect vulnerable children. He also served as an officer with the Kiwanis Club and as a trustee of his Methodist church. Serving others was not simply something Gene did—it was part of who he was. He gave generously of his time, energy, and heart wherever he was needed.

A lifelong and devoted Notre Dame football fan, Gene never missed a televised game or an opportunity to discuss the Fighting Irish. Following Emma's passing, Gene found companionship and love again and moved to Kalamazoo to be near Catherine Dance, his devoted partner. He cherished time spent with Catherine and her family—Cari Eaton, Katie Eaton, Jordan Pal, and Emma Johnson—who welcomed and loved him as their own.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, June and Frank Stroes, and by his beloved wife of nearly 45 years, Emma Stroes.

He is survived by his partner, Catherine Dance; his children, Bryan (Kim) Stroes, Kathy (Ron) Bova, Kimi Stroes, and Frank Stroes; 10 grandchildren, Michelle Kibbe, Heather Hyduk, Garrett Bova, Britney James, Andrew Bova, Halie Cavallaro, Zachary Stroes, Mitchell Stroes, Owen Stroes, and Dominic Stroes; 13 great-grandchildren; and his lifelong friends, Richard Szymczak and Richard Holle.

Gene will be remembered for his big smile, warm spirit, unwavering optimism, and genuine kindness. He touched countless lives through his family, career, friendships, and service to others. His legacy of love, generosity, and friendship will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

A private celebration of life will be held with family this summer. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Upper Room Recovery Community at First Northwest United Methodist Church in South Bend.